It was a great day of basketball in South Carolina for the Phenom Challenge, as we had a chance to watch a lot of intriguing talent. We will have plenty of coverage coming from the event, but these are a few players that earned my attention and what I had to say about them from Day 1 in Spartanburg (SC).
2026 Justus Bell (Upward Stars Gold)
“2026 Justus Bell (Upward Stars Gold) was impressive again today. 6’6 prospect that continues to prove he is a next-level talent. Great size, scored off the bounce, versatile piece on both ends. Came up big in the win today.”
2027 Josh Leonard (Upward Stars)
“2027 Josh Leonard (Upward Stars) is flourishing in so many roles on the team. High-flying at the rim, being an absolute pest defensively, rebounding, and showing a ton of versatility. Absolutely love his overall game.”
2026 Ian Bailey (Team Vision)
“2026 Ian Bailey (Team Vision) should be on D1 radars all around the area. Strong, high IQ, creates well for himself, gets others involved, and love how he can take over offensively as well as run the offense. Should hold multiple D1 offers.”
2027 Noah Hunter (ACE SD)
“2027 Noah Hunter (ACE SD Palmer) really stood out with his versatility and ability to score effectively around the basket and in the paint. Moves really well, presents good size, can play multiple positions, and overall effective as a scorer.”
2027 Isaiah Daniels (SC Blazers)
“2027 Isaiah Daniels (SC Blazers) continues his strong start to the summer. Has been incredibly consistent with his scoring power, displaying athleticism, attacking off the dribble, and getting to the rim. Had 27 points today to start.”
2025 Alek Kornacki (Top Shot)
“2025 Alek Kornacki (Top Shot) continues to show how he can be a productive big in the paint. Love his touch and feel in the paint, operates well with his back to the basket, and impacts the game on the boards.”
2028 Brice Wiersma (Upward Stars)
“2028 Brice Wiersma (Upward Stars) continues to flourish with his size and ability to score inside/out. Moves well and has good touch around the basket, but also comfortable in stepping out as well. A young prospect to keep an eye on.”
2027 Isaiah Hunter (HYAA)
“2027 Isaiah Hunter (HYAA) put on a strong showing here towards the end of Day 1. Created and attacked well off the dribble, knocked down shots comfortably, and showed a strong ability to create.”
2027 Cash Hall (Elite 1)
“2027 Cash Hall (Elite 1) has been putting on an impressive show today. Does a great job in being able to create for himself, showing the ability to create space, knock down jumpers with confidence, and extremely crafty off the dribble.”
2028 Antoine Caughman (Upward Stars)
“2028 Antoine Caughman (Upward Stars) looking to be a big D1 prospect in the coming years. Love his impact on both sides, college frame already, tremendous length, can score from all levels, and plays with a strong motor.”