The South Carolina Freshman 40 showcased a deep pool of emerging talent—players who blend early polish with impressive athletic potential. From lead guards to versatile forwards, these young prospects left a lasting impression with their poise, skill, and competitiveness.
6’4 Kam Rice (Wren)
Rice stood out with his blend of size, strength, and feel for the game. At 6’4, he uses his frame to dominate defensively and crash the glass with purpose. Offensively, he contributes in multiple ways—scoring inside, making the extra pass, and spacing the floor when needed. His ability to guard several positions makes him a prospect with real long-term potential.
5’7 TyKayvian Smith (Ridge View)
Smith was one of the most composed guards in the gym. He controlled tempo, made smart reads, and attacked efficiently in the midrange. His decision-making and pace reflect a maturity that’s rare for his age, making him a steadying force on the floor.
6’2 Kai McKnight (Nation Ford)
McKnight displayed a well-rounded offensive arsenal, mixing creativity off the bounce with confident shot-making. He attacked gaps, finished through contact, and showed poise under pressure. His defensive instincts and motor added to a strong all-around showing.
6’2 Dontay Phillips (Ridge View)
Phillips brought a competitive edge that set the tone throughout the day. A strong, athletic guard, he used his power to get downhill and finish while rebounding effectively on both ends. His effort, toughness, and versatility made him one of the camp’s most consistent impact players.
5’11 Shawn Pernell Jr. (Blythewood)
Pernell impressed as a true floor general. He communicated, organized the offense, and made the right reads in transition. He played with high energy on defense and capitalized on open looks, showing a complete understanding of how to manage a game.
6’3 Ethan Donnell (Grace Christian)
Donnell’s athleticism and activity level were hard to miss. The 6’3 wing defended multiple spots, ran the lanes with purpose, and made plays around the rim. His blend of energy, length, and defensive instincts make him a valuable two-way piece with plenty of upside.