The state of North Carolina is blessed with an overabundance of talent. In the North Carolina 2018 class, 60 plus players signed with D1 schools and another 40 plus signed to play at the D2, D3, NAIA or Juco level. Quite impressive numbers! This year, the 2019 class is on the same course to have 100 plus players continue to play at the collegiate level. In our unsigned senior spotlight, we want to take a closer look at 5’8 DJ Thomas of Broughton High School in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is someone that we strongly feel is a scholarship-worthy player.
In today’s basketball, everyone continues to be enamored with the tallest player on the court and typically dismisses those who are under the six-foot mark. Well, Thomas is forcing folks to become believers in “the little guys,” as no individual has even been able to contain the point guard prospect this season. He’s lightning-quick off the dribble and has zero problem leaving his assignment in the dust when attacking the rim. Thomas does a great job of leading and making plays for others, but understands his role and skillset extremely well. He possesses a strong feel for the game and maintains a great level of unselfishness. Coaches should not be afraid to take a chance on Thomas due to his lack of size.
Our own Rick Lewis had the opportunity to see Thomas at the John Wall Invitational this past winter and stated, “What a performance by 5’8 unsigned senior DJ Thomas! In the anticipated match up with You Tube Sensation Julian Newman, Thomas took to the challenge and played one of the most inspired performances we have seen in quite some time. While his numbers are outstanding, it goes way beyond the box score sheets. First of all, we’re talking about a young man that simply LOVES the game. He has a tremendous passion and it is exhibited in every minute he is on the court. While he is limited height wise, he without question made the biggest statement on the court. He plays with a full throttle approach and is playing like the game like every possession is on the line. The ultra quick point guard finished with a game high 30 points going 12-17 from the floor, 4-9 from the 3-point line, and 2-4 from the free throw line. More importantly, Thomas collected six rebounds, dished our six assists and had a total of five steals.”He’s received nonstop praise from his supporters throughout the season and remains arguably the toughest inch-for-inch guy to defend in the state. College coaches of all levels could benefit from the services of Thomas, so it’ll be interesting to see what programs get involved going forward.
Be sure to check out our entire list of unsigned seniors https://www.phenomhoopreport.com/news-photos/unsigned-seniors