Throughout the last six months, Phenom Hoops was fortunate to see multiple different variations of Raleigh’s Finest and Heritage High School. While Lucas Taylor (Clemson commit) is an obvious draw in terms of recognition, this team goes far beyond just a single star prospect. They were consistently short-handed in terms of depth, usually running with only seven, six, or sometimes even five players. However, things typically seemed to iron themselves out with guys like Evan Ashe and Justin Monden always within that mix. They might not have been considered “stars” to most, but the duo was undeniably valuable to the team’s overall success…
In looking at Ashe, one can find a versatile two-way player with IQ and an incredibly well-rounded skillset. He has no glaring weaknesses, consistently highlighting the ability to affect all facets of the game without forcing the action. Ashe possesses toughness, a useful motor, and the tools to operate within various different roles on the court. He can play with or without the ball in his hands, defend smaller or bigger opponents, outwork his assignment on the glass, and fill in the gaps as needed. Ashe simply understands how to effectively produce alongside any collection of teammates.
As for Monden, he always seems to find himself operating as a balanced, unselfish floor general. He’s gotten stronger over the last year, yet still maintained his silky-smooth perimeter shooting and change-of-pace off the bounce. Monden is tougher and scrappier than he appears to most opponents, and is capable of forcing turnovers at a strong rate defensively. He displays IQ and creates well for himself or others, which allows him to stand in various different ways. Monden offers a fairly calm demeanor and overall presence on the court, which often makes him a quality lead guard for this group. Both he and Ashe have done a lot to stand out over the summer season and should only continue gaining traction with college coaches throughout the upcoming high school season.