On Tuesday, Phenom Hoops traveled to High Point to watch a notable matchup between Wesleyan Christian and Providence Day. Given the talented, veteran-laden rosters on both sidelines, each team has the ability to contend for a state title. Between the first two quarters, it looked like Wesleyan could cruise to a win without really being challenged. The Trojans led 27-21 at halftime and appeared in complete control. However, the Chargers came out of the break with real purpose. They exploded in the third quarter, matching their entire first-half production and quickly taking the game into their own hands. The scoring outburst allowed Providence Day to enter the fourth quarter with a 42-38 advantage. Despite the Trojans continuing to battle, the Chargers ultimately secured a 58-54 road victory.
Providence Day
6’6 ’25 Nick Hailey
Despite their balance as a group, it was easy to appreciate Hailey’s involvement on both ends of the floor. It might sound weird, but he truly looks like a basketball player—particularly through his frame, fluidity, and general movement. Hailey is a strong athlete with length, toughness, and a quality motor. He possesses a high motor, physical nature, and great nose for the ball. Although he was clearly at his best when attacking the basket, Hailey is a respectable perimeter shooter and quality decision-maker off the bounce. While his scoring was definitely needed, his defense, rebounding, and cutting instincts were as valuable as anything. At 6-foot-6, Hailey can guard multiple positions and outwork bigger opponents on the glass. Personally, he feels like the type of player who should be better in college than high school. Scholarship-level programs should already be heavily involved. Final stats: 12 points and 9 rebounds.
6’5 ’25 Jonah Lawrence
Arguably the main shift for the Chargers was Lawrence emerging in a critical way after somewhat of a sluggish start. Coming out of halftime with only two free-throws, he clearly looked to be more assertive and apply downhill pressure. Lawrence started attacking the basket at every opportunity and it immediately yielded positive results. He kicked off the second half with four consecutive drives to the basket—two resulting in and-one finishes while the other two led to free points at the line. Beyond his scoring burst, Lawrence did a quality job of defending and managing the offense. He’s another guy whose combination of size, skill, and remaining upside should appeal to various types of college programs. Final stats: 17 points (11-12 FT) and 2 steals.
6’8 ’26 Deuce Haynes
Although he and Julian Johnson (Howard commit) split opportunities, it’s easy to see the steady improvement from Haynes. In addition to his game continuing to expand, his body also looks better with each viewing. Haynes moves nicely for his size and utilizes his length well to disrupt opponents defensively. He competes on the glass, positions himself to finish around the basket, and runs the floor effectively in transition. Haynes is a useful defensive anchor with solid timing as a shot-blocker. Expect him to be a target for college coaches over the next calendar year, especially as he keeps trending upward. Final stats: 8 points, 2 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 1 steal.
6’7 ’27 Zeke Battier
Right now, Battier is taking advantage of his opportunities as a young, intriguing prospect on a roster full of juniors and seniors. His genetics aside, there’s already a lot to like. At 6-foot-7, Battier is fluid, skilled, and already possesses natural feel on both ends of the floor. He didn’t necessarily need to make a ton of plays with the ball in his hands, yet seemed to capitalize every time he had the opportunity. Battier positions himself really well on offense, displaying an understanding of how to move without the ball without interrupting the action. He finished with touch, played within the team structure, and made smart decisions. Expect Battier to turn heads over the coming years—especially if he continues on his current trajectory. Final stats: 8 points and 2 rebounds.
Other Notable Contributors:
6’8 ’25 Julian Johnson- 8 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block, and 1 steal.
6’5 ’25 Trajan Thompson- 5 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals.
Wesleyan Christian
6’5 ’25 Zacch Wiggins
It was difficult to be anything other than impressed by Wiggins and his clear leadership presence for this group. He did absolutely everything to impact the game throughout the first half. Wiggins is simply a reliable, dependable player who can produce in various roles and consistently adapt to team needs. He scored with efficiency, defended multiple positions, and outworked opponents on the glass while setting the tone on both ends of the floor. Wiggins sets the tone through his IQ, unselfishness, and consistent energy. He was somewhat quiet in the second half, but still made a lasting impression in this contest. Final stats: 18 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, and 2 steals.
6’2 ’25 Jasean Williams
Although his scoring numbers won’t reflect his impact, Williams was a visible difference-maker for this group. He’s an incredible teammate who does all the little things and dirty work on the court. Williams plays with phenomenal energy and unselfishness. He’s a rugged defender whose length and motor naturally overwhelm opponents. Williams appeared comfortable defending any position on the floor, including post players, and making his presence felt on the glass. He filled in the gaps offensively, but primarily looked to make the right play. The aforementioned scoring outburst in the third quarter? Williams was in foul trouble and unable to provide his usual amount of infectious energy. College-level player. Final stats: 6 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocks, and 2 steals.
6’2 ’26 Nick Keith
Despite some ups and downs as a group, Keith continues to show what ultimately makes him an x-factor for this team. He’s still developing as a point guard but displayed solid balance between scoring and playmaking in this contest. Keith is a smooth creator who looks to make the right play with the ball in his hands. He understands how to break down defenses and pick his spots or set up others. Keith possesses a crafty handle and scoring arsenal. Expect his stock to grow as the season continues. Final stats: 11 points and 3 assists.
Other Notable Contributors:
6’2 ’25 Quamir Ingram- 14 points and 3 rebounds.