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 Thomas Hailey of Covenant Day and Defenders Elite.
Versatility has quickly become one of the most desirable traits for college coaches to pursue from high school prospects. Hailey has more than enough tools to make himself a scholarship-worthy guy for the next level. He’s long, athletic, and already knows how to actively switch between three to four positions defensively. Hailey shows flashes of being able to operate as a wing or forward on offense, given his size and ability to exploit mismatches fairly well against all types of opponents. He’s a great rebounder, weak-side shot-blocker, and displays great anticipation for jumping into passing lanes. Hailey typically looks to attack the basket but also moves very well without the ball and can knock down perimeter jumpers at a respectable clip.
We’ve seen Hailey various times with Covenant Day and Defenders Elite over the last few years, including after our Gate City Showcase, where we stated: “Even though he stands 6’7” with a 7’ wingspan and a pogo stick like leaping ability, it is no surprise that Hailey is flying under the radar, he was homeschooled up until this season and didn’t have the exposure opportunities of others. Well, here he is, doing what he does, on a nice stage with coaches watching. Against 3-time defending state champion Greensboro Day School, Hailey finished with 16 points on 7-10 shooting with 8 rebounds and 4 assists. He is a combo forward, the type that is so valuable in today’s game. Everyone always says the level you go is about who you can guard, well Hailey has the potential to be an all-league type defender at the Division 1 level in college. His offensive game is unorthodox, as he can create from the high post, or sit in the dunk spots finishing plays. Playing for his homeschool team last year he averaged almost 10 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks per game to go along with the 17 points per game. All of the eye test stuff is there, the frame the athleticism, now he is getting the exposure needed for coaches to see him. A lot to like here.”
Since then, Hailey has only continued to produce in all facets of the game and deserves the appropriate recognition. He has a college-ready frame and skillset along with the ability to make an impact without requiring a ton of offensive touches. Scholarship-holding coaches should start to make a heavy push for the two-way forward, as it will pay dividends in the long run.