This coming weekend, Phenom Hoops will be hosting two separate events (one in Rock Hill and one in Advance) for the final live period of the basketball-filled summer. There’s an abundance of exciting/noteworthy subplots for spectators and college coaches to look for throughout both settings. The Hardwood Classic at the Rise Facility in Advance, North Carolina should have various teams and prospects worth seeing. Let’s take a closer look…
No Josh' No Problem.
Over the last few years, Coach Johnnie Richardson has legitimately restored some of the legacy that previously surrounded the NC Gaters organization. Unlike some programs (who secure players after they’ve already fully developed), he put these teams together when they were young and pushed them to consistently progress in order to maintain their competitive status. Now, it has almost paid off for everyone. Despite suffering a concussion in the first live period, Nolan Hodge already had enough offers to announce his commitment to UNCW. Additionally, Josh Scovens was sidelined with an injury prior to even starting the live period. The loss of two major pieces basically guaranteed a drop-off from the Gaters. However, Julius Harrison went absolutely insane upon stepping up as their leader (despite being the only junior on the roster) and ultimately placed his name on the list of various college coaches. While those three certainly draw attention, the entire roster is poised to advance to the next level. Adam Vincent is a wiry, fairly athletic shooting threat with size and the ability to thrive without requiring the ball in his hands. Caleb Farrish is the lone unsigned senior, but continues to produce with his defense, rebounding, and flashes of inside-out ability. Brent Randleman is a well-rounded guard with toughness, creation skills, and scoring prowess from all levels. Connor Ballou is a quality creator and shooter with clear understanding of how to run a team or play alongside another primary ball-handler. Jondale Stanley is a rugged shot-making guard with the ability to create, spot-up, or initiate the offense. Drew Watkins is a tough, versatile wing prospect with a nice balance between size, skill, and athleticism. Jah Saigo is a strong, sturdy guard with perimeter skill and physicality on either end of the floor. Finally, Jackson Helms is clearly among the toughest, hardest-working players on the team—evidenced through his nonstop motor and desire to make hustle plays. Again, Nolan Hodge and Josh Scovens represent massive losses, but this group has more than enough guys capable of stepping up.