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 Gabe Erbeck of Asheville Christian Academy and NLPB.
We’ve seen Erbeck several times over the years, previously stating, “Although his backcourt mate tends to receive most of the headlines, Gabe Erbeck is someone who should be generating more buzz among college coaches. He has a very straightforward identity as a wing who competes at a high level and can fill it up offensively. Erbeck is comfortable initiating the offense and setting up others as needed, but is arguably at his best when looking to score the ball. Whether spotting up, attacking the rim, or generating pull-ups off the bounce, he’s skilled enough to take whatever the defense gives him. Erbeck poses a threat in transition and moves very well to find chances as a cutter. He plays with great energy defensively and has the size to guard bigger opponents if necessary. Erbeck also rebounds well for his position. Expect him to start collecting offers sooner rather than later.”
Since then, Erbeck has only continued to solidify himself as an obvious next-level talent. His lack of recruitment is more indicative of the times than his ability. Erbeck is a polished offensive threat who can fill it up as a scorer, heat up quickly as a spot-up option, and operate as a creator for himself and others. Whether initiating the offense or applying pressure without the ball, he’s comfortable producing in various roles. Erbeck finishes through contact, hits midrange pull-ups, and knocks down jumpers at a quality rate from distance. He’s a quality defender and rebounder who plays hard on both ends of the floor. Erbeck is tough and plays with a chip on his shoulder. He’s also a nice athlete with size and an adaptable two-way game. He should certainly have more action within his recruitment and will be a contributor wherever he ends up. Coaches can see him with NLPB Blue this travel ball season.