The first day of the Phenom Hoops JMAC Showcase was nothing short of electric. High energy, high scores, and high crowd engagement added to the already competitive atmosphere. In post-game interviews, many players confirmed that this is a high caliber tournament with tough teams and great opportunities for exposure. A matchup worth noting
Is the 17U showcase between the Juice All-Stars (Coach Stephenson and Team Charlotte (Coach Jeff McInnis). This game drew one of the largest audiences of the day, made up of scouts, families, and players themselves.
Player standouts from this game include: Ford Cooper, a 6'3 prospect in the class of 2020, who led Team Charlotte in scoring with 24 points. The Team Charlotte's 2020 class was represented well as 6'0 Trayden Williams scored 13 and 6'3 Tristan Maxwell added 13. For the Juice All-Stars, 2020 prospects Saiquone Harris (6'6) and Christopher Nobles (6'7), scored 11 points and 15 points, respectively. The Juice All-Stars had a three-point lead at the half, but Team Charlotte was fired up entering the second and pulled away to win 82-71.
Three players made particular good impressions during Saturday's games. Daniel Ransom, a member of 17U Team Charlotte, made his presence known despite only scoring 3 points in the showcase game. He plays with high energy on both sides of the ball and has a basketball IQ that's off the charts. He creates space for shooters, makes the extra pass, and hustles on every play. The 6'5 small forward from the class of 2020 committed to play at Western Carolina University in April and there is no doubt that the Wildcats are getting a great all-around player.
Lebron Thomas, class of 2022, plays for Florence USA 16U, which means that he is playing up for his age. Thomas' most impressive skill is his ability to pass the ball with correct timing, speed, and position. His selflessness and precise quickness with the basketball creates space and opportunities for his teammates to score. In addition to his unmatched passing abilities, he is a high energy player, like Ransom, who is involved on both ends of the floor. His defense especially causes problems for opponents.
Jai Rorie, a 5'11 prospect for the Main Event Elite of the class of 2019, wraps up player spotlights for Saturday's games. He was the most solid shooter of the day; he could not miss from beyond the arc. His performance today warranted interest from colleges who need a speedy ball handler and lights-out shooter on their teams.