John Wall Holiday Classic: Day 2 Standouts Part 2
When it comes to high school holiday basketball tradition, one has to put the 47th Holiday Day Invitational (sponsored by John Wall Foundation) on the list. Played at historic Broughton High School, the John Wall is a must see. It brings a wealth of talent and teams to the Raleigh area each and every year, not to mention one of the best atmospheres in the country. The first day of action was played before sold out crowds with a wealth of talent on display. https://phenomhoopreport.com/2018/12/26/john-wall-holiday-invitational-opening-day-standouts/
Day 2 Part 1: https://phenomhoopreport.com/2018/12/27/john-wall-holiday-invitational-day-2-standouts-part-1/
Now, let’s take a closer look at the Day 2 Standouts Part 2
5’7 2019 DJ Thomas (Broughton High School)
What a performance by 5’7 unsigned senior DJ Thomas! In the anticipated match up with You Tube Sensation Julian Newman, Thomas took to the challenge and played one of the most inspired performances we have seen in quite some time. While his numbers are outstanding, it goes way beyond the box score sheets. First of all, we’re talking about a young man that simply LOVES the game. He has a tremendous passion and it is exhibited in every minute he is on the court. While he is limited height wise, he without question made the biggest statement on the court. He plays with a full throttle approach and is playing like the game like every possession is on the line. The ultra quick point guard finished with a game high 30 points going 12-17 from the floor, 4-9 from the 3-point line, and 2-4 from the free throw line. More importantly, Thomas collected six rebounds, dished our six assists and had a total of five steals. As Phenom’s Miles Masercola wrote earlier in the season, “DJ Thomas is the definition of lightning in a bottle, a high flyer that constantly has the entire gym at the edge of its seat anticipating a jaw dropping moment.”
6’10 2019 Day’ron Sharpe (South Central)
It was another workmanlike game for UNC verbal Day’ron Sharpe. Sharpe finished with a double double as he absolutely dominated the glass. He finished with 14 points, collected 21 rebounds with 13 coming on the defensive end of the court, not to mention four blocked shots. What’s even more important is the fact that Sharpe does everything in an efficient manner. He went 5-8 from the floor and 4-5 from the free throw line. Sharpe has good shooting mechanics and a nice touch that can occasionally stretch out to the 3-point line. Playing in front of UNC assistant coach Steve Robinson, Sharpe gave Tar Heel fans a future glimpse of his long range potential. Sharpe will provide UNC a true low post presence that knows, understands and embellishes his role as a true big, which is not often seen today.
6’3 2019 Shykeim Phillips (South Central)
One of the biggest conversations circulating around the John Wall is the lack of current D1 interest in Shykeim Phillips. Once again, Phillips showcased why he should be on the D1 radar. We’re talking about a strong, reliable and efficient combo guard that does goes about his business making winning plays; rebounding, playing defense and playing within the structure of the offense. Phillips finished with another solid all around game that should translate well at the collegiate level. He finished with 16 points going 7-14 from the floor and 2-2 from the free throw line. In addition, Phillips collected four rebounds, dished out four assists and had three steals. His presence was clearly felt on both ends of the court.
6’4 2019 Jalen Lecque (Brewster Academy)
Playing in front of future NC State head coach, Jalen Lecque did what Jalen Lecque likes to do, and that is make thunderous dunks in the lane. We’re talking about a young player that has a superb blend of athleticism, explosiveness and a matching skill set. While Lecque is best attacking the rim; using his excellent body control or freakiest athleticism, he has the ability to score at will, but is also a willing and creative passer off the dribble. Lecque should fit in nicely in Coach Keatts uptempo style of offense where he can utilize his elite level athleticism.
