On Thursday, Phenom Hoops traveled out to Kernersville, North Carolina, to get a closer look at the Villains of Bishop McGuinness. Coach Thompson and his staff have consistently built the roster around very specific types of kids. Given their history of success, it’s worked quite well throughout the years. This squad is no different. The Villains have a very strong core of guys, including several key pieces who have made visible strides within their respective developments. Although the new realignment bumped Bishop McGuinness up to 2A, this group should definitely emerge as title contenders over the next two years. Let’s take a closer look…
It doesn’t take long to recognize Thomas Thompson as one of the main leaders of this group. Like we will eventually say about several guys on this roster, his progression has been truly incredible to watch unfold. Thompson is long, athletic, and naturally impacts all facets of the game through his constant activity. He’s made considerable strides as a creator and shooting threat, but is still at his best when getting downhill and attacking the basket. Thompson is a strong finisher, both above and below the rim, and makes solid decisions with the ball in his hands. Add in his reliable rebounding presence and ability to switch across multiple positions defensively, and it’s easy to see why college coaches are heavily involved.
Similarly, Bryce Chapman will be another focal point for the Villains. He has the size and length to dominate around the basket, but has also become increasingly more versatile over the last twelve months. Chapman possesses excellent touch and footwork with enough shooting and ball-handling ability to cause matchup problems for opponents. He finishes very well from the post, but can also space the floor or attack off the bounce when available. Chapman is a long, fluid athlete who does a healthy amount of everything on the court. Above all else, his motor and competitiveness allow him to stand out on a regular basis. Only a junior, expect him to be a huge difference-maker going forward.
The addition of JJ Short will also provide this team with a reliable floor general. He’s a steady, well-rounded lead guard who offers nice balance between scoring and playmaking. Short handles the ball with poise, sets up others, and picks his spots as a scorer. He’s able to touch the paint at a quality rate and convert midrange pullups or jumpers from beyond the arc. Short provides a pesky, high-motor defensive presence and doesn’t shy away from physical play. Expect him to be a key piece over the next two seasons.
Arguably the most improved player on the roster, Arop Chom has completely transformed his identity throughout his high school career. Going from a raw athlete to a well-rounded piece has been nothing short of impressive. He’s going to be a meaningful utility piece who plays hard, does the dirty work, and fills in the gaps as needed. Chom showed the ability to create, score, and make his presence felt defensively.
Rounding out this group, guys like Charlie Wall, Steven Hawley, and Tristan Graves should all bring value to the table. Wall is a glue-guy who knows how to impact the game within his role. Hawley is a highly competitive player and arguably the best shooter on this roster. Graves is a nice role piece who produces within the flow of the team structure.