Phenom Hoops had a terrific event this past weekend down in Charlotte with the Phenom November Classic, presented by Ivester Jackson Christie’s. We had some terrific performances and teams in action, but there were a few players that really left a mark on our scouts. Here are five players that really impressed at the event.
2023 Dallas Gardner (Charlotte Country Day): What a performance Gardner had to end the event, as he simply went off for 33 points to help Charlotte Country Day secure the comeback big win vs. United Faith on Day 2. Gardner continues to be an under-the-radar type of player that doesn't get the recognition he deserves in the class of 2023, but it is time to recognize. Gardner has that blend of athleticism and a strong, physical game that makes him effective in getting to the lane, scoring through defenders, and getting to the rim. He also shows that he has a solid perimeter feel but really excels in getting downhill. Gardner may have had the performance of the weekend.
2022 Cade Tyson (Carmel Christian): Carmel Christian and Providence Day may have been the game of the weekend; two very strong teams going at it in a back-and-forth affair on Day 2.' Tyson though was the star in that game, as he carried his team in the first half and made some big plays in the second half to help his team earn the close victory. Tyson has that ability to elevate his game, especially when he is tested and needs to be that leader.' He was incredibly effective from all areas on the floor, knocking down shots from three at his 6'8 frame, pulling up with his mid-range, and also finishing strong around the basket.' He needed to step up and that is what he did for his team in a big game on Day 2.
2022 MJ Collins (Westminster Catawba): Even though it was a tough weekend for Westminster, Collins continues to really impress me with his ability to be a true knockdown shooter and scorer.' He has a ton of confidence in his game in scoring from three, as well as creating his own shot; he also is one of the best shooters with a defender in his face that I've seen this year so far.' Collins gets what he wants, when he wants most of the time, and is an absolute workhorse on the floor.' Really impacts the game in so many ways and understands how to be a go-to player on the court.
2022 Luke Grace (Wesleyan Christian): I was able to watch Grace the week before and was impressed with how he can be used on the court and he showed it again at the November Classic. Grace is a true stretch forward for his team, and though he may not be the most athletic, he is incredibly skilled as a 6'9 prospect. Has one of the most confident outside shots as a big that I've seen early in the year but also is a skilled post presence with his back to the basket. Grace has a really good feel and should get some more recognition for his game.
2023 Josh Bullock (Lake Norman Christian): Bullock has been on the Phenom Hoops radar for over a year now but getting our first glimpse of him this season, one can see that this 2023 point guard is quickly on the rise. Bullock has the poise, the IQ, and a strong feel that allows him to play within the game. He makes terrific decisions, looks to run the offense and get his teammates involved, but also really showed his ability to create his own shot. He made some big shots in a big game vs. Liberty Heights and it seems that he has taken his game to another level since last year.