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 Jaylen Siermons of E.E. Smith and Fayetteville Flash.
With the way basketball has trended, being able to contribute in a low-maintenance role is arguably as valuable as ever. Impacting the game without requiring offensive touches or needing to score is a phenomenally-underrated skill and something that Siermons embraces each time he touches the floor. He's a long, athletic forward/post prospect with the unique ability to protect the rim or step out and effectively switch or defend ball screens. Siermons moves so well for his size, both in recovering and when running the floor in transition. He's smart, unselfish, and rugged, which is an excellent combination for an interior presence at the next level. Siermons possesses touch and solid vision around the basket, but also positions himself very well and makes his presence consistently felt as a two-way rebounder. His identity is something that all types of college programs could utilize.
We've seen Siermons various times with the Fayetteville Flash, including at our most recent Phenom Challenge. He made the Bendel's Best, where we stated: 'The Fayetteville Flash was one of the tougher, grittier programs at Phenom Challenge and Jaylen Siermons definitely provided them with a useful presence on both ends of the floor. He's a big, strong athlete with an exceptional frame and the ability to control the paint while playing nicely within his role. Siermons consistently stood out with his defensive prowess, both as a rim-protector and perimeter defender, and was able to outwork basically every opponent in his path throughout the weekend. He moves extremely well for his size and displays terrific rebounding instincts, able to utilize his blend of motor, length and strength to clear out space and outwork opponents for every available loose ball. Siermons doesn't need offensive touches to impact the game but is capable of playing above the rim or scoring around the basket with decent touch. There's definitely a place for him at the next level, which should have scholarship-holding coaches buzzing.'
Everything we said then has only become more evident over the last six to eight months. Though Siermons is still flying under the radar, his production simply speaks for itself. He's been the epitome of a team player throughout his high school career and has the tools to greatly benefit a variety of programs at the next level. There's still time, so we'll be watching Siermons recruitment unfold over these next few months.
