At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, over a hundred players from North Carolina went on to play at the Division I, II, III, or NAIA levels, and that number looks likely to continue increasing with the current senior class. Typically, we take a closer look at guys who are overlooked and under-recruited, and today's edition will highlight Eli Clark of Metrolina Christian.
We've seen Clark in various different settings over the years, including our Phenom 150 Camp, stating, 'Moving onto a player that quietly operated as a main glue-guy for this team on both ends of the floor, Eli Clark. He's a smart, unselfish, high-motor guard prospect with the ability to make his presence felt from either backcourt position. Clark is a knockdown midrange shooter and reliable three-point threat with the necessary strength and penetration ability to finish through contact. He displays sharp vision and looks to set up others at every available opportunity. Next in his development process is working on becoming quicker, as it would make him a better defender at the point of attack. Coach Potter on Clark: 'Eli is a competitor with the ability to get to the paint and finish well. He's a good shooter, but also displays a nice floater and reliable pull-up jumper. Eli is a heady defender that rebounds the ball well. He can continue to develop his strength and quickness.' Clark found numerous ways to make his presence felt during camp and has the tools to be an impact player for Metrolina Christian going forward.'
After dealing with injuries and roster turnover, Clark has arguably come back better than ever. He's a smart, poised, team-oriented guard who can adapt to whatever his team needs. Clark is a reliable defender, playmaker, and three-level scorer. This season, he's posting nightly averages of 22.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.5 APG, and 2.2 SPG with incredible 51/48/89 shooting splits. Clark is leading the team in three major statistical categories while operating as their primary initiator and decision-maker. To fully appreciate how ridiculous his shooting numbers are, we must look at the insane volume. Clark has attempted the most free-throws and three-pointers (by a mile), yet has the highest shooting percentage in both areas. Additionally, he's attempted the most field goals and still ranks second on the team. Although the Warriors have seen some struggles as a group, it should not stain Clark's obvious appeal as a next-level player. In all honesty, he's deserving of way more action within his recruitment.
