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 Isaiah Hairston of Greater Beckley Christian.
With versatility continuing to grow within the game of basketball, one would think that a player like Hairston would be generating a ton of attention from college coaches. He’s big, strong, and fairly fluid to possess such a sturdy frame. Hairston is fairly skilled and regularly showcases the ability to operate from the block or outside the arc. He displays soft touch with either hand, craftiness out of the post, and quality passing instincts for a big man. Hairston utilizes his body very well to clear out space, secure rebounds, and even push the break in transition at times. He runs the floor well and shows a willingness to make the smartest possible play at all times.
We’ve seen Hairston thrive in each type of setting, including at our most recent Tennessee 150 camp, where we stated: “Continuing onto a player that is an absolute matchup problem on both ends of the floor, Isaiah Hairston. He’s a strong, big-bodied forward prospect with excellent offensive versatility and a nice two-way feel for the game. Hairston can apply scoring pressure from all three levels, including from the post and as a penetrating threat. He’s big but very agile and has the ability to draw out slower big men and blow past them off the dribble. Hairston displays quality footwork and poise around the basket, which allows him to make plays with regularity. He rebounds well, has the ability to push in transition, and can switch across multiple positions defensively. Next in his development process is working on his consistency as a perimeter shooter, as it would make him virtually unstoppable on offense. Coach Roberts on Hairston: “Isaiah is a big body that gets to the rim and can finish. He’s very quick for his size and utilizes his strength well around the basket. Isaiah is a great two-way rebounder with good hands. He maintained a positive attitude throughout the day.” Hairston has all the tools to have a very productive upcoming season, especially if he keeps his mentality from camp.”
Since then, Hairston has only continued his steady play with Greater Beckley Christian. He was an offensive focal point throughout the season and has the necessary tools to carve out a quality role at a variety of different programs. It’ll be interesting to see where Hairston ends up, especially given how quiet his recruitment has been over the last few months.