Man, oh man, what a summer it was for Phenom Hoop Report. Not only were our own expectations exceeded but the amount of talent that rolled through our events was absolutely impressive. Whether it was rising seniors, high-major talent, young and rising prospects or new faces, there was talent all over the place.
Now that the season has come to an end, let’s take a stroll through memory lane with our scouts on which players made the biggest impressions.
Three players to watch this season
Jeff Bendel:
6’5 ’21 Bryce McGowens (Lincoln Academy/Upward Stars)
Arguably the new top player in North Carolina, Bryce McGowens is going to be an immediate draw for high-major coaches coming to Winston-Salem. He’s so skilled, athletic, polished, and versatile, but still has the ability to take his game to an even higher level.
6’4 ’20 Zavian McLean (Village Christian/Team Wall)
Still one of the most underrated players in the state, Zavian McLean will have the keys to Village Christian this season. He’s a leader and winner above all else but has the two-way abilities to truly dominate any opponent in his path. McLean finally started to get well-deserved scholarship offers as the summer came to an end, but should easily accrue another five to ten throughout the upcoming season.
6’6 ’21 Bryce Harris (Greensboro Day/New Heights)
Probably one of the lesser-known players right now, Bryce Harris is going to be a major addition to Greensboro Day. He has a tremendous skill set, especially for his size, and should be able to make an instant two-way impact. Harris already holds multiple offers, but it feels like he’ll really blow up over the upcoming season.
Miles Masercola:
6’2 2021 Terence Harcum (Granville Central/Garner Road)
There is so much to like with the way Harcum handles his business. He’s a mild-mannered kid that plays the game with a high level of intensity and focus. He’s the kind of kid that has a legitimate shot for him to average 25+ points per game next year and should pick up D1 attention in the process. He’s a joy to watch with his ability to score while also never forcing the issue.
6’6 2020 Kahari Rogers (Liberty Heights/Team Charlotte)
Rogers is someone that should be a really dangerous threat from the wing for Liberty Heights this year. As his consistency continues to improve his potential to be a major producer will become more and more fulfilled. He has a bag of tricks that provides legitimate context to his high major interest, and it wouldn’t surprise me in the least bit to see that interest turn into offers if he produces like he’s capable of.
6’2 2022 Sam Cogan (Lincoln Charter/Team Charlotte)
Cogan has a chance to become THE guy under Championship Head Coach Bradley Gabriel at Lincoln Charter. He possesses a great blend of skill, athleticism, and overall toughness as he can score it from anywhere on the court while bringing an above the rim presence. He was more of a role guy last year behind Jackson Gabriel and Lavonte Knox but that should change this year as Cogan will be asked to carry a heavy load offensively.