At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, over a 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 under-recruited, and today's edition will highlight Ryan MacKinnon of Chapel Hill.
We've watched MacKinnon really elevate his game over the last twelve months, recently stating, 'Since the previous entry, Ryan Mackinnon has really evolved into an enticing prospect for various college coaches. He's able to dictate the action with the ball in his hands, apply nonstop pressure as a threat from beyond the arc, and finds ways to make a steady impact on both ends of the floor. MacKinnon understands how to succeed without requiring the ball in his hands, able to properly cut, spot-up, and find open seams within the defense. He's also a solid passer and overall creator. Mackinnon possesses nice size and utilizes it effectively to contain his assignment, battle on the glass, and play through contact when attacking closeouts. He has the tools to be successful for a variety of programs at the next level, and should be quite productive as a leader for the Tigers during his upcoming senior season.'
Given his status as a clear leader for the Tigers, it's easy to appreciate everything MacKinnon did throughout his senior season. Although their playoff run was cut short, it doesn't diminish the fact that they just enjoyed their most wins in nearly a decade. MacKinnon is a long, wiry wing prospect with great size, range, and quality three-point shooting. He's a willing passer who can create his own shot, excel without the ball, or assume playmaking duties in a pinch. MacKinnon is a lethal spot-up threat with an understanding of how to position himself for success and consistently knock down jumpers. This season, he posted per-game averages of 15.4 PPG, 6.9 RPG, and 1.4 SPG. There are a ton of different styles and situations that are tailored for someone like MacKinnon, so it'll be interesting to see where he ultimately decides to further his playing career.
