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 Kenny Gwynn of Carmel Christian and Team Charlotte-Herron.'

There is an ongoing discussion about the most productive players in the state of North Carolina, and Gwynn's name should be listed towards the top. He plays in an absolutely perfect situation with Carmel Christian, operating seamlessly as the third or fourth offensive option while placing his imprints on every facet of the game. Gwynn's low maintenance role is one of the most appealing things about his skillset, as he just naturally knows how to make plays without necessarily requiring the ball in his hands. He's smart, tough, strong, and operates extremely well within the team concept on both ends of the floor. Gwynn can operate as a secondary creator quite easily, where he loves to get downhill, attack the basket, and finish strong or set up open teammates. He's also a great rebounder and versatile defender with the ability to grab and effortlessly push in transition. 

We've seen Gwynn and Carmel Christian at numerous events this season, including the Gate City Classic, where we stated: 'Few teams have enjoyed as much glory as Carmel Christian over the past few seasons, but it still feels like Kenny Gwynn remains an underrated part of their success. Arguably no player in the state epitomizes the 'glue-guy' label more than him, mainly because he outworks everyone and consistently does the thankless work. Gwynn is a true competitor with a nonstop motor, phenomenal body, and two-way presence that could carve out a useful role on any type of team. His blend of IQ, strength, and versatility allow him to make plays without necessarily requiring the ball in his hands. Gwynn seems to naturally find a way to affect all facets of the game. He fights for rebounds, forces a ton of turnovers, makes the extra pass, scores as needed, and literally everything else that a coach would want from a player. The fact that Gwynn currently holds no offers is an absolute joke, as he's the type of guy that teams need to win games. His recruitment should certainly pick up through this season, as college coaches should correlate success and Gwynn with each other.'

Right now, Gwynn holds a lone Newberry offer. It's extremely difficult to understand how a player that screams production, offers leadership by example, and brings a quality locker-room presence gets thisoverlooked. Gwynn is averaging a smooth 11-6-2-2 in 25 minutes per game as the third or fourth option with one of North Carolina's top private school teams. He is the glue that holds each of his teams together. Gwynn might not be flashy, but he's the type of prospect that every coach should pursue.