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 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 Lucas Jenkins of Mountain Heritage and PSB McCarthy.
There’s a long list of varying factors that go into a player’s recruitment and overall “stock” for the next level. Although it’s not acknowledged enough, Jenkins is someone that embodies a ton of the necessary traits to make an impact with any collection of teammates. Unfortunately, showing adaptability and the ability to be a seamless fit hasn’t properly resonated with college coaches. He’s a big, strong, athletic guard/wing prospect with a nonstop motor, great nose for the ball, and excellent defensive instincts. Jenkins can effectively operate without the ball or create reliably for himself and others. He doesn’t force the action, understands how to find scoring opportunities as a cutter, and can score the ball efficiently from all three levels.
We’ve seen Jenkins in all types of settings, including at our most recent Tennessee 150 camp, where we stated: “Next, we look at a player that arguably showcased the highest motor of anyone at camp, Lucas Jenkins. He’s a big, strong, athletic wing prospect with great IQ, size, and the ability to overwhelm his assignment on both ends of the floor. Jenkins is a capable three-level scorer but typically gets most of his points through off-ball cutting and overall transition play. He’s a phenomenal rebounder with the ability to push the break and play above the rim whenever possible. Jenkins is a quality all-around defender that welcomes physical play and forces turnovers at a nice rate. Next in his development process is working on becoming a craftier ball-handler, as it would take his offensive game to a new level. Coach Roberts on Jenkins: “Lucas is a hard-nosed player that gives incredible energy on both sides of the ball. He’s a great teammate that maintained a positive attitude and looked to make plays for others. Lucas plays really hard and extends plays with his hustle.” Jenkins secured the Mr. Hustle award with relative ease and looks poised for a big-time senior campaign.”
Since then, Jenkins has only continued to generate positive traction with college coaches. He’s exemplified the attributes, both on and off the court, to have success at the next level. In all actuality, it’s still somewhat surprising that Jenkins hasn’t collected more offers over the last few months—given his sheer production within a quality high school program. Between his size, motor, and two-way approach to the game, Jenkins is extremely likely to carve out a useful role wherever he should end up in the collegiate ranks.
