Each and every time Phenom Hoops gets to report or see a commitment from a player we have seen over the years, it is always a fantastic day. It is great to see players achieve their goal to play at the next level and it is such a great accomplishment for that player. Here is the latest commitment.
Player: Nicholas McLean
Class: 2026
Committed to: Queens
What Has Been Said by Phenom Hoops:
“Nicholas McLean really stood out during the Lions’ practice session. A skilled forward with excellent size, McLean combines perimeter shooting ability with a good basketball IQ, making him a valuable stretch option in the frontcourt. He shows confidence spotting up from deep and has the touch to consistently knock down shots from the perimeter, forcing defenses to respect his range.”
“A long, versatile front court player who moves well for his size. McLean shows a soft touch around the basket and is beginning to develop perimeter awareness, making him a matchup problem on both ends of the floor. Plays with energy and has the tools to continue rising as a senior.”
“There’s a lot to like with McLean, especially considering that he’s starting to visibly tap into his long-term upside. He’s a long, wiry forward with an enticing blend of size, skill, and athleticism. At 6-foot-9, he’s becoming a real mismatch for opponents. McLean is a knockdown shooter with quality feel and developing ball skills. He regularly makes an impact through his ability to knock down shots along the perimeter, attack closeouts, and apply pressure at the rim as a finisher or putback threat. McLean has added strength over the recent months and appears more physical on both ends of the floor. Add in his switchable defense and ability to block shots, and it’s easy to see the appeal. McLean should attract a variety of Division I coaches going forward.”
“McLean has had a big two weeks, and we don’t see it slowing down anytime soon. The difference a year makes with his game is quite impressive, as he looks a lot more comfortable as well as stronger as a prospect. But what sets him apart is his ability to bring value inside and out, scoring well inside with touch and over defenders as well as being able to step out and knock down the mid-range shot and threes. McLean mixes it up well and should be in line to shine for WS Christian this season.”
“McLean is still a bit of a mystery, but there is intrigue with his game. When he first watched him coming into North Carolina, there were a few growing pains to adjust to here in North Carolina. But watching him this summer, you can see he has handled it really well, improved in several areas, and again is a 6’9 prospect that is able to be a multi-level scorer. He moves well, runs the floor in transition, shows touch around the basket, and is comfortable in popping out to be a threat from outside. I expect him to see more minutes this season, which could attract more eyes his way even though he holds multiple offers already.”