This past weekend, Phenom Hoops traveled to the Convention Center in Raleigh, North Carolina for the second LIVE period of the travel ball season. Between the competition, college coaches, and talented prospects at every turn, there was plenty to enjoy. This article will take a closer look at some players who stood out with their play'
5'10 '25 Derek Ross Jr. (Wildcats Elite)
Regardless of context or situation, Ross can be found shining as the focal point for this group. He's an incredibly smart, dynamic point guard prospect with seemingly the perfect blend of playmaking and three-level scoring. Ross displays pace, quickness, and a natural understanding of how to properly set the tone as a two-way leader. He breaks down opponents with such ease, touches the paint whenever he wants, and consistently makes brilliant decisions with the ball in his hands. Ross continues to solidify himself as one of the most exciting, electric players in the state. Watching him play is always an enjoyable experience.
6'8 '24 Alex Atkinson (Upward Stars Columbia)
There were quite a few potential breakout prospects in the building, but none more intriguing than Atkinson. At 6-foot-8, he's a walking mismatch. Atkinson can reliably pass, shoot, handle, and cause problems with his defensive presence. He's versatile enough to initiate the offense, push in transition, and make decisions with the ball in his hands, but can also reliably post-up or find opportunities as a cutter. Atkinson plays above the rim, shoots the ball at a nice percentage (especially for his position), and moves extremely well for his size. Add in his athleticism and clear upside, and Atkinson should be due for a massive blow-up.
6'7 '24 Oliver Lucas (NuStep Gold)
It was easy to see the overall talent level within the NuStep Gold roster, and Lucas was a player who stood out immediately. He's a strong, rugged, physically overwhelming forward/post prospect with effortless explosion and the ability to outwork opponents on both ends of the floor. Lucas is a powerful finisher, both above the rim and through contact, with the necessary toughness and motor to pose a constant threat for lobs and putbacks. He lurks well for rebounds and runs the floor well in transition. Lucas' blend of strength, toughness, and explosiveness consistently made him an absolute terror for opponents.
6'6 '24 Tyler Showalter (BSA Supreme)
Although it feels like everyone from BSA Supreme could be mentioned, Showalter is someone who deserves a lot of attention'both from spectators and college coaches. It's genuinely bizarre that he hasn't secured his first offer, as Showalter continues to perform at a really high level and visibly contribute to this team's incredible success. His well-rounded identity truly allows him to affect all facets of the game and adapt to whatever the team requires. Showalter is a knockdown shooter, reliable finisher, and capable post-up option with vision, toughness, and useful ball skills. Like everyone on this team, he understands how to locate the right pass and keep things constantly moving. Showalter is also a quality rebounder with the ability to defend multiple positions and impact the game with or without the ball in his hands.
6'4 '24 Cameron McKinney (CC Elite)
The balance of CC Elite is quite impressive, and McKinney’s tough, scrappy interior presence is a massive reason why. He's a long, high-motor forward/post prospect with touch, athleticism, and a sheer nose for the ball. McKinney has a knack for making hustle plays and securing extra possessions, but can also score from the block and finish through contact. He's a steady two-way rebounder who understands how to cause problems for opponents with his defensive presence. He runs the floor well in transition and is simply willing to do whatever necessary to provide this group with an edge.