At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned prospects in the senior class. Last season, over one hundred players from North Carolina went on to play at the Division I, II, III, or NAIA levels (with several others exploring the JUCO path). That number looks likely to continue increasing with the current senior class. Typically, we try to highlight guys who are under-recruited by college coaches or overlooked by the masses. This edition will feature Alek Kornacki of Concord Academy.
We’ve seen Kornacki throughout his time in North Carolina, recently stating, “It’s easy to appreciate the balanced structure of Concord Academy. They understand how to identify and exploit mismatches, and Alek Kornacki certainly took advantage in this contest. Against an opponent lacking size, the strong-bodied big man effectively anchored the paint on both ends of the floor. He finished over his left shoulder, competed for every available rebound, and ran properly in transition. Kornacki keeps it simple and plays to his strengths. He screens, secures deep post position, and regularly alters shots around the basket. Kornacki is someone who should entice several next-level programs.”
Big men will always be coveted by college coaches, which is why it’s surprising that the 6-foot-9 Kornacki doesn’t have more action within his recruitment. He’s a sturdy, strong-bodied post prospect with touch, footwork, and an understanding of how to utilize his physical tools to overwhelm opponents. Kornacki is a low-maintenance piece who doesn’t necessarily require a ton of touches to impact the game. He’s a reliable finisher who plays well through contact, but also displays solid vision and a useful nose for the ball. Kornacki is a great rebounder who positions himself well to control the glass defensively and compete for putback chances. He blocks/alters shots at a quality rate and does a nice job of staying vertical to contest opponents at the rim. Kornacki also runs the floor properly in transition. He would be a meaningful asset for a variety of programs at the next level.