At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, hundreds of players from the Carolinas 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 Ryan D’Joussa of Trinity Byrnes.
We’ve written about D’Joussa numerous times, including at our most recent SC Top 80, where we stated, “Finishing up, we look at a player that understands and embraces his identity as a sturdy interior piece on both ends of the floor, Ryan D’Joussa. He’s a big, strong-bodied post prospect with a nice scoring arsenal from the block and the ability to control the glass on either side of the ball. D’Joussa finishes at a solid rate, moves well for his size, and looks to capitalize on opportunities within the flow of the action. He utilizes his body well to clear out space and overpower opposing post players on defense. D’Joussa runs the floor effectively in transition and simply plays a steady, straightforward game in every type of setting. Next in his development process is working to become quicker, as it would make him even better defensively when operating in space. Coach Crawford on D’Joussa: “Ryan is a big with great potential and a strong frame. He also showed great athleticism when looking to play above the rim no putbacks. Ryan’s biggest thing will be the progression of his game as a finisher around the rim. Ryan also showcased his ability to stretch the floor and attack off the dribble.” D’Joussa did a lot of things well at camp and will be a prospect for college coaches to monitor throughout his upcoming senior season.”
Since then, D’Joussa has continued to find opportunities to make his presence felt for the Titans. Although he’s a capable scorer and rebounder, one could argue that his motor and physical tools are his most enticing qualities. D’Joussa doesn’t require touches to impact the game, rather quite the opposite. His ability to willingly play hard on both ends of the floor naturally leads to rebounds, blocked shots, and finishing chances around the basket. He runs well in transition, utilizes his body inside the paint, and has plenty of upside remaining. Various schools are involved with his recruitment, so it’ll be interesting to see where D’Joussa ultimately decides to further his playing career.