One of the top guards in the state of North Carolina, 2026 LJ Rush came down to Rock Hill (SC) for the Phenom Summer Showcase and put on an impressive show. In watching him operate and dissect his opponents on the court, it was easy to see why schools are making him a primary target in the Class of 2026. Patrick O’Brien/ Phenom Hoops were able to catch up with the point guard from 1-of-1 Elite to get a little update on all the latest in his recruitment. Check out what he had to say.
Phenom Scouting Report:
Rush is such an intriguing and fun guard to watch operate on the court. With his quickness and speed out in the open floor, his ability to blow by defenders off the bounce, and he is one of the most explosive guards in the state of North Carolina. Whether he is flying high at the rim, pushing and attacking out in transition, scoring off the bounce, or knocking down shots from the perimeter, Rush understands how to put on a show. What sets him apart from many is his speed though, putting that on display both offensively and defensively. He can get into passing lanes, turn defense into offense, and makes it hard for opponents to stay in front of him as he attacks off the dribble.
Recruitment Update:
Rush has continued to see an uptick with his recruitment as St. Bonaventure and Boise State were his most recent offers. Currently, Rush holds offers from Rutgers, Florida State, Jacksonville, UTA, Oklahoma State, Nebraska, Arizona State, Radford, Central Michigan, St. Bonaventure, and Boise State.
In talking and catching up with him at the Phenom Summer Showcase, Rush mentioned that St. Bonaventure, Boise State, Rutgers, Oregon State, and Jacksonville have been the strongest out of those offers, while schools like Oklahoma State, George Mason, and Liberty have all been expressing interest his way. Out of those three, he had mentioned that Oklahoma State has been the strongest.