Last year, Phenom Hoops introduced our PHL League to provide an even bigger platform for teams that attend our events. Not only does this create a competitive pool of independent programs, but it also allows those squads to see how they fare against all types of shoe-circuit opponents and teams outside of our general area. The standings/point system clearly relays how these teams stack up against one another. That being said, Apex Spurs Edwards has quietly trended as one of the more noteworthy 15U squads in North Carolina. Let’s take a closer look…
Although this is a highly unselfish, balanced group, it’s easy to see the overall dynamic that Ricardo Oriol brings to this team. He’s an extremely crafty, polished guard with the IQ, playmaking instinct, and scoring ability to consistently shine as a focal point. He’s a quality creator who can reliably generate clean looks for himself and others with the ball in his hands. Oriol displays impressive shot-making ability, both off the catch and dribble, with a knack for attacking as a threat off the bounce. He sees the floor well as a passer and is willing to make the right play whenever possible. Oriol positions himself properly to force turnovers and make his presence felt defensively, but will only become more imposing as his body adds strength. Between his production and approach to the game, he brings valuable leadership to this team.
Meanwhile, Lane Edwards is another key piece who provides knockdown shooting and ability to consistently apply pressure with or without the ball in his hands. Although he’s a phenomenal spot-up threat who excels at finding open space and causing problems for opponents in spot-up situations, he’s more than comfortable at initiating the offense or making plays off the bounce. Edwards is willing to make the extra pass whenever available, but isn’t shy about taking advantage of open opportunities. He displays great energy on both ends of the floor, showing the ability to outwork opponents on the glass and highlight a scrappy presence defensively. Edwards is one of the most consistent guys on this roster.
The duo of Chase Medford and Cade Terrell each brings their own important wrinkle to this squad. Medford is a natural utility piece who does an exceptional job of playing hard and filling in the gaps on both ends of the floor. He defends multiple positions, rebounds bigger than his size would imply, and does a little bit of everything offensively. On the other hand, Terrell is a wiry forward who operates as one of the main interior pieces for this group. He utilizes his length and touch to finish around the basket, but can also knock down an open jumper or find opportunities through his ability to run the floor in transition. Terrell’s positioning and strong activity allow him to alter shots and secure rebounds at a consistent rate.
Although those four largely set the tone and carry the production for this group, everyone on the roster finds ways to contribute. Guys like Paxton Roberts, Linden Young, Asher Hamstra, Adrian Ware, Evan Broussard, Jenner Ybarra, Luke Frary, and Sam Lewis are each capable of standing out as an x-factor from game to game.