The Phenom Halloween Havoc was another terrific event, checking in on a few players that we have seen before and to see how they have been developing but also giving us some new, young names. Here are four young players that could be ones to monitor down the road, as they really showcased their talent on the big stage in Rock Hill.
2026 William Stevens (Triple Threat Academy):
This is another viewing for me personally of Stevens and another event that the young, long, and wiry prospect really grabbed my attention. Stevens already stands at a long 6'5 as only a rising eighth-grader and makes his impact felt in an array of ways. Helping hold down the paint, blocking shots, and being aggressive on the boards, Stevens makes his presence known on the defensive end without fouling. But you add his offensive skill set, his ability to create for himself, handle the ball, rise over defenders with his jumper, and finish around the basket, there is a lot to like about this young man.
2027 Kordell Stewart (BTown Gladiators):
Though he is only going to be in seventh grade, the young man opened some eyes and could be a name to remember. What separates him already is his size, as he brings a 5'8 frame but a big build that he uses well. He finished well for the most part, played with a physical feel, and operated well within the arc. It is still very early for this young man but he is one to jot down and keep an eye on down the road if you hear his name.
2025 Jonah Drye (Crown Academy):
Drye has been on the Phenom Hoops radar for some time now, as he has produced in multiple events this year. The 5'11 guard is fundamentally sound with a shifty game and plays with a toughness. Drye is one of the primary facilitators but blends it extremely well with his ability to score the ball and knock down shots. Really like his production level at his age and really helped contribute to the winning ways this weekend at the Halloween Havoc.
2026 Isaiah Williams (CC Elite):
This is another young man that has a chance if everything comes together.' The first thing you have to notice is his long frame and even longer wingspan.' Listed at 6'4, he looks and plays much bigger, using that wingspan to his advantage.' When watching him in action though, I was extremely impressed with his ability to run the floor, his fluid motions, his ability to finish strong at the rim, and his presence down low.' With his body and length already, there is a lot of upside to this young man's game and it will be really interesting to watch how he continues to develop.
2026 Amari Melton (Triple Threat Academy):
Melton was a new name personally from me but our scouts were raving about his play and feel for the game, so we had to go check it out more. They weren’t wrong, as Melton has a tremendous feel for the game, one that you don’t always see for a player of his age. He operates really well in transition and uses his body to go through defenders. Melton has a terrific IQ and really showed that he can get whatever he wants at times. Just another young prospect to watch.