The talent that was at the Phenom Memorial Day Classic was incredible, and that is putting it lightly.  Talent of all levels, high-level competition, and a terrific atmosphere made this event one for the books.  And though we will be highlighting players a lot more throughout the week, there were two young prospects that I was blown away by with what I saw and felt like I needed to talk more about.  Though there is still a lot of time left in their development and both will need to continue to trend in the right direction, 2026 Cole Cloer and 2027 Josh Leonard are two that look to have all the tools to be 'up next' in a big way.  So, let's dive into each with what we saw:

2026 6'7 Cole Cloer (CP3)

Personally, I think very highly of this young man and his game.' I believe that Cloer has all the tools to be a high nationally ranked player and college programs at the highest level will be looking his way sooner rather than later.' There is so much to like about this young man's game, and I'm a huge fan of what he brings.' He checks a lot of boxes early on with his size and skill set; Cloer is a 6'7 prospect that plays the game with a high IQ.' He is one that can finish at the rim, create his own shot, and has a smooth confident release from all levels of the court. In fact, there isn't a position on the floor he doesn't look comfortable in operating and making plays.' And again, I believe he is just scratching the surface of what he ultimately could be; his continued development will be key but knowing this young man, I don't think that will be a problem in the coming years.' Cloer simply has that 'it' factor that just makes you see early in a big-time player, and I believe he will be recognized as that by all national outlets very soon.

2027 6'5 Josh Leonard (Upward Stars)

Yes, we are going to talk about a player that is just entering his freshman year in high school.' But when you watch this young man and understand just how old he is, your eyes can't help by light up with excitement.' Leonard has incredible size and frame for a player his age. He has the early strength and physical traits that wow you but then you watch more of his game, and you instantly think how special this kid could be.' Now again, there is a lot of room for growth still and his development will be key, but he looks to be the next big guy coming out of South Carolina early.' Leonard has so much upside to his game and what he ultimately may be in the end. He can be physically demanding as a player, handles the ball well for his size, looks comfortable and strong in making plays from inside and out, and just has a knack for making plays on both sides of the court.' He is fluid, has a strong feel/IQ for a player his age, has tremendous two-way instincts, and can be used in a variety of ways with his size/frame.' There is quite some time until he fully develops as a player, but you can't help but see 'stars' standing by his name early on.