Unsigned Senior Spotlight:Â 6’2 Champ Hayden

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 or under-recruited in some capacity, and today’s edition will highlight Champ Hayden of North Hills Christian.

We’ve written about Hayden numerous times over the last calendar year, recently stating, “Hayden has only continued to find success—regardless of surrounding teammates. Whether with Team Snow, Anthony Morrow Elite, or the Lions, he’s been able to consistently produce. Hayden is a strong, polished guard prospect that possesses a quality blend of size, toughness, and creation ability. He scores the ball at a healthy rate from all three levels, but is arguably at his best when getting downhill and attacking the basket. Hayden plays well through contact on both ends of the floor and utilizes his scrappy nature to overwhelm opponents defensively. He’s a willing passer and useful off-ball threat with an understanding of how to make the right play within the flow of the action. Hayden has the tools and mentality to play at the next level, so it’ll be interesting to see what programs get involved going forward.”

Since then, Hayden has put up insane production for North Hills Christian. This season, he’s posting nightly averages 31.8 PPG, 10.7 RPG, and 2.4 SPG while shooting 48% from the floor. Hayden has consistently shown the ability to generate offense with the ball in his hands. He’s a capable playmaker but is primarily tasked with burdening the scoring load for this group. Hayden knows how to break down opponents and apply pressure as a finisher or midrange shooter. He plays well through contact and offers toughness on both ends of the floor. College coaches should take note, as it’s easy to appreciate everything he’s shown this season.