5’11 Zaiyir Phillips (Team United)
There are several names on this roster who receive a lot of attention. Despite not getting the same buzz as others, it’s clear that Phillips is among their most valuable pieces. He’s an incredibly steady, smart guard who can effectively produce from either backcourt position. Phillips offers a well-rounded identity with the combination of shooting, defense, and playmaking to make a constant impact on both ends of the floor. He runs the offense and creates opportunities for others, but is more than comfortable at spotting up or moving without the ball. Phillips makes smart decisions and simply provides a reliable identity for this group.
6’9 CJ Rosser (Team United)
Quite easily the most tantalizing prospect in attendance, every viewing of Rosser leads to more and more excitement about his otherworldly potential. We wrote extensively about him after our Hoop State Challenge, but it seems like he’s continued to make strides since then. Like most high-level prospects, so much of his path will be determined by work ethic, physical maturity, and mental desire. However, his combination of size, fluidity, shooting, and natural instincts is unbelievably rare. Add in the fact that he has ball skills and processing ability, and we could possibly be watching one of most notable players to come through North Carolina over the past decade. Over the weekend, Rosser displayed toughness around the basket, creation skills off the bounce, and versatility on both ends of the floor. There’s plenty of room left for growth, but it’s clear that Rosser has the tools to be a special player.
6’7 Niko Bratton (Team United)
Given everything he’s shown over the recent months, it’s clear that folks should have a lot of optimism surrounding Bratton. Between his current ability and long-term upside, there’s obvious appeal. Bratton is somewhat of a walking mismatch for opponents. At 6-foot-7, he’s a versatile wing/forward who creates, scores from all levels, and defends multiple positions. Bratton is a quality rebounder who attacks the glass and pushes the break in transition. He’s a great passer for his size. Bratton forces opposing teams into difficult situations (especially at this age) because he has a solution for every type of matchup. Bigger defenders struggle with his athleticism and ball skills while smaller defenders tend to just get overpowered. He will certainly be worth monitoring over the coming years.
6’9 Charles Chienggnan Pur (Team United)
Similar to his trio of teammates listed above, there is already a lot to like with Pur’s overall game. The length, skill, and instincts are all very real. He moves extremely well for his size, scores in a myriad of ways, and is a legitimate deterrent for opponents as a rim-protector. Pur will need to add strength, but his tools and foundational identity are clear. He finishes around the basket, displaying craftiness or the ability to play above the rim, and shoots the ball very well for his position. Pur is a great passer who typically makes smart decisions with the ball in his hands. Upon adding in his motor and rebounding presence, and it’ll be exciting to follow his continued development going forward.
5’10 Colt Fowler (Upward Stars)
There were a lot of impressive floor generals on display, but Fowler was arguably in a tier of his own. He’s quick, heady and displays tremendous IQ when running a team. Fowler plays at a completely different gear than the majority of his peers. His motor, speed, and ability to rapidly process with the ball in his hands makes him a nightmare for opponents. Fowler breaks down opponents and aggressively attacks off the bounce, showing the ability to touch the paint, make correct reads, and finish when necessary. He shoots the ball at a high clip and is willing to apply scoring pressure, but truly looks to set up others whenever possible. Fowler’s tight handle and sharp vision make him a brilliant playmaker. He offers a scrappy, energetic presence at the point of attack and forces turnovers with regularity. Fowler is the type of guy who coaches trust to dictate the action.