This past weekend, Phenom Hoops traveled out to Rise in Advance, North Carolina for our annual Team Camp. This event always serves as a kickstart to June, as players go back to their respective high schools and prepare for the upcoming Live periods. There’s usually a fair number of takeaways but it’s also easy to get carried away or overexcited by the sheer change of pace from travel ball. Either way, various teams made noise, individuals put on notable performances, and coaches were able to assess their rosters. Plenty of guys stood out, but Rassell Young was arguably as impressive as anyone on display.
The floor general for Mallard Creek was nothing short of incredible. At 6-foot-1, Young showcased a dynamic all-around identity while shining as a leader and tone-setter on both ends of the floor. He’s an effortless creator armed with a tight, crafty handle and excellent playmaking instincts. Young displays IQ in virtually every possible way, whether generating shots, defending opposing guards, or simply managing the game. He makes highlight-reel passes look routine while forcing opponents to respect his polished scoring three-level scoring ability at all times. Young can pretty much get any shot with the ball in his hands, but also moves really well as a cutter and applies phenomenal pressure as a spot-up threat. He converts highly difficult jumpers on a regular basis, yet also does a quality job of taking what the defense is giving him. His poise and confidence level are unmatched. There are really no weaknesses or deficiencies in his offensive game. On the other side of the ball, Young is able to cause a ton of problems for opponents. He’s a rugged, engaged defender with sharp anticipation and a terrific nose for the ball. Young forces turnovers at a high frequency and immediately turns them into scoring opportunities in transition. He also rebounds the ball well for his size/position. Definitely one of the top prospects in North Carolina’s Class of 2026, Young’s extremely smooth game should appeal to all types of Division I programs.