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 Tyler Young of Fork Union and New Light Disciples.
It seems like everyone in the modern era is focused on shooting, but being able to create and exploit mismatches is arguably more valuable. Well, that's precisely where Young comes into play. He's a traditional low-post brute with strength, soft hands, mobile feet, and the ability to complete dominate the glass on both ends of the floor. Young understands and embraces his identity very well, never trying to do too much or anything outside of his realm. He's a walking double-double, even in today's game, and serves a clear purpose at the Division I level. Young has been a leader, tone-setter, and productive all-around player for Fork Union throughout the season. Coming off of his incredible summer and tantalizing previous season at Dudley, he's only worked to improve his body and develop his skillset.
Young was a consistent star at our events last summer, including at our Phenom Challenge, where we stated: 'For those who were in attendance at Phenom Challenge, it's pretty obvious as to why Tyler Young is the first name on this list. He was nothing short of dominant when operating on the low block, where he proved to be the most efficient post scorer on display. Young is so big, strong, and poised, which makes him virtually unstoppable against most interior defenders. He has an excellent feel around the basket and possesses phenomenal hands with soft touch going over either shoulder. Young is a monster rebounder that knows how to consistently clear out space, corral misses with two hands, and pitch the ball ahead to a guard in transition. He runs the floor hard and does a quality job of anchoring the paint without fouling. Young has picked up his first offer and should only continue to see his recruitment trend upward from this point going forward.'
At this point, Young holds five offers from quality Division II schools but still deserves more action within his recruitment. It's difficult to understand how a guy with his tools, attitude/demeanor, and nightly abilities isn't coveted by a majority of programs in the region. Young has proven himself as much as any player should over the last six to eight months but only time will tell which college coach will be blessed with his commitment and impressive abilities.