On Tuesday, Phenom Hoops traveled out to Wesleyan Christian for a competitive battle between the Trojans and visiting Spartans of The Burlington School. Although both teams have college-level talent, few people could've predicted the bloodbath that would ensue. The opening quarter kicked off in an exciting, back-and-forth fashion, but neither team could gain any separation as it remained a tied game at 15-15. The following eight minutes offered more of the same. Wesleyan's zone dared the Spartans to shoot three-pointers, and it definitely had an effect, but the Burlington School's dominance on the glass allowed them to hold a 37-34 lead at halftime. Very little changed after the break. After a four-point play in the closing seconds of the third quarter, the Spartans led 60-54. The final period quickly turned into an onslaught by the Spartans, as they aggressively extended their lead across the next eight minutes and secured a 92-74 victory over Wesleyan Christian.

The Burlington School:

6'2 '24 Zion Walker

Although it was an extremely balanced effort as a team, Walker was arguably their most impressive performer. He proved to be a main catalyst by touching the paint, making smart reads, and scoring with efficiency from all levels. Walker highlighted plenty of point guard ability and drew countless fouls when attacking the basket (and converted all seven attempts at the line). He also displayed toughness, defensive prowess, and the ability to play through contact on both ends of the floor. Final stats: 17 points, 6 assists, and 3 steals. 

6'9 '23 Michael Nwoko

The raw numbers don't necessarily explain how enticing Nwoko should appear to all types of college coaches. At 6-foot-9, his strong, athletic frame immediately captures the attention of any spectators. Add in his motor, toughness, and low-maintenance approach, and it's easy to see why he's a high-level prospect. Nwoko plays a very simple, straightforward game'and excels in doing so. He's a terrific screener who rolls hard, finishes with consistency, and makes his presence felt as a rebounder and rim-protector. Final stats: 14 points, 3 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 1 steal.

6'3 '22 Kheni Briggs

While the final totals might not reflect it, Briggs' surge to start the final quarter led to an immediate momentum shift in favor of the Spartans. He typically operates as an overqualified glue-guy, given how naturally he affects all facets of the game. However, Briggs continues to showcase his ability to expand his production as needed. He made huge defensive plays, smart decisions offensively, and scored from all levels. Briggs will be a useful piece at Charleston Southern. Final stats: 14 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals.

Other Noteworthy Contributors:

6'8 '23 Avion Pinner- 13 points, 3 rebounds, 1 block

6'3 '24 Kobe George- 8 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals, 1 block

6'0 '22 Shane Peterson- 12 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists

6'6 '22 Amare Miller- 8 points, 6 rebounds

Wesleyan Christian:

6'5 '22 Jefferson McLamb

Though the Trojans' committed sniper (Cam Parker) led the way in scoring, McLamb was still undeniably impressive as a focal point for this group. His foundation as a strong, athletic, downhill penetrator is still evident, but his improved consistency as a three-point shooter definitely makes him a more difficult assignment than ever before. McLamb is also a capable defender and rebounder with the tools to only get better and better going forward. Various types of programs should be involved. Final stats: 18 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 steal.

6'9 '22 Luke Grace

The high school recruiting scene is bizarre, that's understandable. However, the lack of attention towards Grace from scholarship-level coaches is perplexing. In a matchup with a nationally recognized opponent, the skilled big man more than held his own. His combination of size and perimeter shooting should already be enough to entice folks, but the development of his feel and interior presence only heighten the appeal. He didn't control the glass in this showing, but he's more than capable of defending the paint and collecting rebounds on both ends of the floor. Final stats: 15 points, 3 rebounds, 1 steal

Other Noteworthy Contributors:

6'1 '22 Cam Parker- 21 points, 1 steal

6'0 '23 Trent Jackson- 7 points, 4 rebounds, 10 assists, 3 steals

6'0 '22 Alex McGee- 7 points, 2 assists, 1 steal