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 Jackson Holt of Moravian Prep.
We’ve seen Holt countless times, including at our most recent NC Top 80, where we stated, “Continuing onto a player who is undoubtedly the best unsigned shooting threat in the state, Jackson Holt. He’s a steady, unselfish, team-first wing prospect with the ability to genuinely thrive without requiring the ball in his hands. Next in his development process is working to become quicker, as it will make him a better defender against opposing guards. Coach Dre on Holt: “I am a huge Jackson fan! This young man was so impressive. By now, he is known throughout the state for being a marksman—and he definitely didn’t disappoint. Coaches need shooting at every level, and I believe this kid has ability as a shot-maker at the next level. As a coach, you are more surprised when he misses. I could go on and on about his shooting, but it’s his moxie, grit, and will to win that impressed me the most. Jackson is an ultimate team guy! “Yes sir” type of guy who does whatever is asked of him. This camp is for elite players and, whenever I needed a defensive stop, I had him guarding every position on the floor. When our big man got injured, I put Jackson on a 6-foot-10 kid and he contested every shot. I didn’t see him get scored on once throughout camp. He has great defensive instincts and timing. Given how he carries himself, I believe he has been under great coaching. This man will help any program at any level because the bottom line is: he will do whatever it takes to win. 100% stamped, Mr. Holt is that guy!” Holt proved to be an asset throughout camp and should be a priority for various scholarship-level programs.”
Before going any further, it’s worth noting that Holt might legitimately be the top shooting threat in the state—especially amongst unsigned prospects. He possesses incredibly smooth, repeatable mechanics, and every shot looks like it’s going in. Holt doesn’t force things or ever look to take a bad or unnecessary shot, which only increases his overall value. He’s a smart passer, reliable defender, and well-rounded player who certainly does more than just hit jumpers off the catch. Holt’s understanding of his individual identity truly makes him a high-level role player who can be a productive, useful piece with any collection of teammates. He should only continue to collect scholarships over the coming months.