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 Julius Peacock of Heritage High School and Raleigh's Finest.
We've seen Peacock countless times throughout his high school career, including at our recent NC 150 Camp, where we stated, 'Finishing up, we look at a player that simply overwhelmed the opposition with his defensive prowess, Julius Peacock. He's a long, athletic, hard-nosed forward prospect that provides reliable rim-protection and a nonstop motor on both ends of the floor. Peacock is a great finisher, both through contact and above the rim, but doesn't necessarily require the ball to make a lasting impact. He blocks a ton of shots, forces a lot of turnovers, and runs the floor like a gazelle in transition. Peacock embraces his role extremely well and is capable of dominating a game on the defensive end of the floor. Next in his development process is working on the use of his off-hand, as it would make him a better finisher below the rim. Coach Senyo on Peacock: 'Julius is a true rim-protector. He had four blocks in one showing and runs rim-to-rim in transition. He dunks and blocks shots, but can also knock down the 15-footer. He is a Deandre Jordan in the making with his size and long wing span. He rebounds and blocks shots at a high level. He will be a good CIAA/D2 basketball player one day.' Peacock enjoyed an excellent showing, securing the Mr. Defense award with relative ease, and should have a very productive upcoming senior season at Heritage.'
Peacock continues to showcase value where most players simply do not: on the defensive end of the floor. He shows little desire to dribble the air out of the ball or take perimeter jumpers like so many 6-foot-7 players attempt nowadays, but just seems to enjoy embracing his identity as a hustle player and guy who is willing to do the dirty work. Peacock plays with a great motor and possesses excellent length on his wiry frame. He's a quality athlete, both laterally and vertically, and looks to finish through any amount of contact at the rim. Peacock also runs the floor well in transition and consistently disrupts opponents on the glass. He should continue to gain interest and will ultimately be a useful piece wherever he ends up.
