There are various positive things about Phenom Hoops and various other scouting services, but the sample size and ability to watch a player for the entirety of their progression is arguably the most appealing. Whether Coby White, Josh Hall, or dozens of other noteworthy names, plenty of high-level prospects have come through our doors over the years. However, many small, young guards, like Kadyn Dawkins, are finished growing upon reaching high school. While size is a massive advantage in basketball, especially at the high school level, it shouldn't be the driving cause for liking a player. In fact, there are plenty of guys who are able to redefine what it means to be a sub six-foot player'like Darren Lloyd.
The sample size notion was brought up due to how long we've watch Lloyd throughout his development process. Three years ago, a 5-foot-4 pitbull came to our SC Jr. Phenom Camp and certainly turned heads with his two-way abilities. Even then, it was easy to see Lloyd's sheer toughness, exceptional motor, and incredible open-floor speed. Despite a lack of size, Lloyd has always shown emphasis as a defender, playmaker, and downhill scoring threat. After earning opportunities as a freshman and sufficient experience as a sophomore, the West Florence and Carolina Bad Boyz product only seems to have gotten better and better over the years.
Smaller guards are always expected to separate themselves in some form or fashion, so Lloyd simply looks to outwork opponents in every facet of the game. He's actually a very strong rebounder for his size–which is more useful than meets the eye'as it allows one of the quickest and fastest end-to-end players in the region to apply constant pressure in transition. Lloyd is smart and unselfish, showcasing a consistent balance between scoring and playmaking. He's a useful three-point shooter but arguably at his best when attacking the basket or accessing his midrange pull-up. Lloyd is a terrific defender, especially on the ball, and can force turnovers at a seemingly nonstop rate. Now standing at 5-foot-9, he's also worked to become an in-game dunking threat. College coaches should already be well-aware of the two-way guard, as he already has the makings of a quality guard at the collegiate level.
