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 Shawn Wilson of Bull City Prep and Team Hickory.
We’ve seen Wilson countless times over the years, featuring him last summer, stating, “Team Synergy works together as well as any team, and it certainly doesn’t hurt when Wilson is performing at such a high level. He has showcased the full arsenal on offense and possesses the necessary physical tools to overwhelm a variety of opponents. Wilson is a capable defender, rebounder, shooter, and ball-handler with vision and the ability to finish well through contact. He should have various programs vying for his services at the next level.” Then most recently on our “Unsigned and Uncommitted” article, where we stated, “Between the two lists, specifically regarding those who are well-known and productive, Wilson has arguably received the least attention of anyone. While likely due to his early-season transfer, there’s simply no denying the strides he’s made within his game over the last calendar year. Wilson is now truly capable of operating from either guard position, though he seems potentially more overwhelming as an all-around scorer. His size also allows him to operate from multiple positions and outwork bigger opponents on a regular basis.”
Although Wilson’s recruitment has begun to pick up since then, it’s still confusing as to why more scholarship-level programs aren’t already involved. Kudos to FTCC and St. Augustine for being the first to extend offers, but Wilson would be a contributing asset to a wide variety of different levels. He’s a strong, smart, sturdy guard prospect with a quality balance between skill and athleticism. Wilson can make an impact with or without the ball in his hands, given his defensive prowess, passing vision, and ability to apply scoring pressure from all levels. He utilizes his body well, rebounds effectively for his position, and pushes transition play with regularity. Wilson has the tools and ability to find success at the next level, so programs should continue getting involved.