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 Javarzia Belton of Moravian Prep and Team Loaded.
Size has a distinct appeal to all types of Division I coaches. Elite size is something that makes everyone’s heads turn, and Belton certainly possesses a head-turning frame. Arguably the strongest, most muscular prospect in the region, Belton built his foundation on simply being bigger than everyone else. Over the last few years, he’s worked tirelessly to add more polish to his overall skillset while still bulking up at an impressive rate. Belton understands and embraces his role as well as any big man, never forcing the action, altering shots on defense, and running the floor with consistency in transition.
We saw Belton and Moravian Prep at both of our Team Camps in June, where we stated: “There’s so much to be excited about with Moravian Prep, especially with how Javarzia Belton has been developing. Everyone should already know about the strong-bodied big man, considering his physical dominance and clear significance to this program. For those who don’t, Belton is gearing up to become even better than before. He’s maintained his next-level frame and strength, but has become noticeably more fluid with his movements, both laterally and when running the floor. Belton really understands and embraces his identity, which is what makes him nearly impossible to stop for opposing big men. When he catches the ball near the basket, Belton is looking to rip off the rim and dunk it on anyone in sight. He’s also improved his overall feel for the game, displaying improved counters and kick-out instincts in the post. Belton appears to continue trending upward and could collect another five to ten Division I offers by the start of next season.”
Unfortunately, Belton suffered an injury that would keep him sidelined for most of the season, which essentially put the brakes on his recruitment. Now, he’s back to full health and looks ready to start reestablishing himself as the physical specimen everyone remembers. The strides that he made prior to injury were significant and should ultimately make him even more appealing as a Division I prospect. Belton has still received a slew of offers: South Carolina State, UNLV, Charleston, UMBC, Wichita State, Wake Forest, Elon, Hofstra, Drexel, La Salle, St. Bonaventure, Texas A&M, IUPIU, and Rhode Island (with the last eight coming after team camps). He’s only going to become more fluid and comfortable with his overall game as time carries onward. Belton is going to be someone worth keeping in the memory bank going forward, as we will definitely see him on the big stage sooner than later.