At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, hundreds of 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 underrated, and today’s edition will highlight Shane Peterson of The Burlington School.
We’ve seen Peterson countless times, including at our most recent NC Top 80, where we stated, “Next, we look at a player who is easily one of the top shooters and overall role players within the state, Shane Peterson. He’s a smart, unselfish, extremely low-maintenance guard prospect with vision, toughness, and elite three-point shooting. Peterson is able to pose a constant threat without the ball in his hands, given his instincts as a cutter and spot-up threat. He makes terrific passes, defends his position very well, and can truly dominate a game without ever needing to force the action. Next in his development process is working to become a better finisher, as it would make him even more reliable when attacking closeouts. Coach Whaley on Peterson: “Shane has the tools to change the flow of a game with his ability to shoot the ball in bunches. Once he heats up, he has the ability to get by the defense with a simple head-fake and will make the right play immediately after. He’s a willing defender and displays a high basketball IQ.” Peterson enjoyed a quality showing at camp, and should be an obvious target for college coaches as an x-factor for The Burlington School during the upcoming season.”
Since then, he’s only continued to solidify himself as one of the most valuable x-factors across the state of North Carolina. Although Peterson has maintained his status among the top three-point shooters, he’s proven to be way more than just a spot-up threat. His IQ, defense, and general understanding of how to operate within his specific role makes him an incredibly significant asset. Peterson moves as well as anyone without the ball in his hands, and has the quick release to get off clean looks with relative ease. He’s capable of attacking closeouts and making the extra pass whenever available, but never looks to do too much. Peterson is a major difference-maker for the Spartans and should have a variety of opportunities at the next level.