Player: AJ Washington
Class: 2026
Height: 6’4
School: Davidson Day
There were plenty of players who stepped up early at the Carmel Tip-Off with Phenom Hoops over the weekend, as we look to highlight players that caught our eyes. One prospect that certainly garnered our attention with his play was 2026 6’4 AJ Washington from Davidson Day, as he stepped up HUGE for his team with 26 points to help secure the victory.
Washington was one down in South Carolina playing at Fort Mill High School but announced that he would be joining the Davidson Day team to help bring even more talent to the court. Phenom Hoops has had limited opportunities to watch but has had some strong views of him at the NC Top 80 and at the Carmel Tip-Off.
On Friday, we had this to say about his game:
“Washington came up big for his team on Day 1, scoring 26 big points in what was an overtime thriller for Davidson Day vs. TBS. Washington is a big-bodied guard who shows his comfort level from behind the arc. He does a great job in finding the open spots on the court, and he doesn’t lack confidence in rising up and knocking them down from behind the arc. But with his frame, he is able to also make plays off the bounce, attack the basket, and find ways to get to the line as well. He was big to help his team in a tight game on Day 1.”
Washington has a lot of tools that you like to see; he has the size you like, a good frame that will help in the future, has a ton of confidence in his shot-making ability, and mixes his game well offensively inside and out. Washington doesn’t lack confidence from behind the arc, finding open spots and knocking down shots from outside, while also being effective getting downhill, embracing contact, and finishing strong. He also uses his size well defensively, competing and being physical with opponents and being able to guard multiple positions. After what we saw over the last two events, Washington should certainly be a target for certain schools, and we expect his recruitment to pick up even more this season and summer.
NC Top 80 Evaluation:
“He’s a smart, skilled, athletic wing prospect who showcased an impactful identity on both ends of the floor. Washington is a capable shooting threat from the perimeter, but is arguably at his best when getting downhill and finishing. He displays vision and a useful handle, but can also find success without the ball. Washington utilized his size and instincts to effectively contain his assignment on defense. Next in his development process is working on the use of his off-hand, as it would make him a more complete player. Coach Doughty on Washington: “AJ played a power basketball game today. His shot wasn’t falling early, but I loved the way he adjusted his game and never allowed his confidence to waver. AJ had a lot of strong penetration moves to the basket. On defense, he was able to force opponents into bad shots. He’s also a very good rebounder for his size. I am excited to see his upcoming season.” Washington made a lasting impression during his time at camp and will be a major addition to a loaded Davidson Day roster.”