At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, over one 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 underrated, and today's edition will highlight DeRon Medley Jr. of Laurence Manning.'
We've seen all types of different basketball identities throughout the years, and all types of players find their way to the next level. Medley is someone that could ultimately become an asset for the right college program. He's a long, tough, fairly well-rounded guard prospect with a great motor, quality defensive instincts, and the ability to make an impact on both sides of the ball. Medley displays a terrific nose for the ball, able to consistently secure rebounds and force turnovers leading to fast-break opportunities. He can operate from either backcourt position, given his spot-up presence, but also understands how to maximize his role without forcing the action. Medley is a useful creator with solid vision and nice finishing capabilities with either hand around the basket. He makes plays in transition and utilizes his motor to overwhelm his assignment.
Medley enjoyed a pretty productive season at Laurence Manning, posting nightly averages of 14 PPG, 4 RPG, 3 APG, and 1.5 SPG. His ability to play within a role or step up and assume more responsibility is something that should increase his appeal for college coaches. Furthermore, Medley has prioritized his academics extremely well, scoring 1050 on his SAT, 23 on his ACT, and maintaining 4.22 GPA. At this point, there should be nothing holding him back from seeing an uptick in his overall recruitment. Medley could carve out a useful role at the next level with a variety of different programs, especially if he continues to trend upward.