Phenom Hoops went down to the Columbia area to check in on another impressive showing at the Savage Academy. Christian Savage has done a tremendous job getting talent from around the state of South Carolina all under one building; talent that can play at multiple levels.
Here are a few thoughts and takeaways from an exciting night of basketball.
Made the Biggest Impression: 2021 6'3 Timothy Barnes (Gray Collegiate)
Barnes put on a show at the Savage Academy.' From the first game to the last, he was catching everyone's eyes and getting people out of their seats.' If you haven't seen his game yet, you certainly will want to as he is an explosive, get out of your seats, type of prospect.' He looks to put opponents on a poster and does so impressively with power and athleticism.' But he also showed that he can score on other levels, knocking down jumpers with his mid-range shot and from three.'
Other Standouts:
2021 6'5 Devario Sheppard (Dreher HS): Sheppard is a physical type prospect that can impact eh game in multiple ways. The wing prospect brings good size and a good frame, showing that he can score and impact the game in several ways. Whether it was his smoother mid-range jumper or using his frame to battle down in the paint. His physicality stood out all night long, along with his hustle.
2022 6'7 Olyn Knox (Blythewood HS): Knox was one of the better interior presences on the court. But he wasn't doing it all around the rim but it was his mid-range jumper that was almost unstoppable. Knox was feeling it, showing a smooth confident release, and reading the defender to find an opening to get his shot off. Knox though did do work inside, rebounding the ball well and bringing a lot of versatility to the court.
2021 6'4 Dessie Canty (Dorman HS): Coming off an offer, Canty showed why he can play at the next level. This is a young man that will be a key piece for Dorman with his ability to get downhill and showcase his athletic game. He threw down an impressive dunk that got everyone out, but he continued to embrace contact and put pressure on defenders. He also is a strong defender as well.
2021 5'11 Jaylon Jeter (Ridge View HS): Jeter played really well on the night, especially with his ability to use his speed and quickness to his advantage. The quick guard was able to get downhill on multiple occasions but also knock down shots.
2021 6'4 Myles Jenkins (River Bluff HS): Jenkins continues to impress with his blend of size and game. He plays with physicality, using his body to his strength and scoring inside and out. Jenkins embraces contact and finishes well throughout it.
2021 6'4 Jaylen Ray (White Knoll): Ray has a smooth feel to his game.' He brings great size and versatility, showing that he can handle and lead the offense, make proper reads, and use his length to get to the rim.'