Each and every time Phenom Hoop Report gets to report or sees 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: Austin Ball
Class: 2023
Committed to: George Mason
What He Said:
“George Mason has a really good program that I couldn’t pass up! The vision I see for myself in that program is nothing but greatness. I really see myself as a great building block in that system and playing for Coach English is something I can’t wait to do! They have recruited me very hard since the day they first offered. The whole coaching staff really went out of their way to check on me and call me on a day-to-day basis and that’s something I really insured and really liked about them! So honestly with the direction, they are heading and my ability to come in and play big for them is something I couldn’t pass up!!”
What Was Said by Phenom Hoops:
“Ball has been known to be a lethal shooter on the court and he stepped up in key situations in this one with his jumper from three but he also showed that he is rounding out more of his game, finishing stronger, attacking the defense, and being used in other areas of the court.”
“Always very skilled and versatile, he noticeably vaulted his recruitment forward by making the move. Ball already possessed a lot of enticing qualities and overall appeal as a well-rounded offensive weapon. However, his transition from a quality three-point shooter to an incredibly lethal one has been something worth seeing. Ball is nearly uncontainable as a long, wiry, 6-foot-7 wing/forward with an absolute flamethrower and the necessary quickness on his release to get off clean looks against any type of opponent. He’s way taller than most wings and way too mobile for most interior players, which leads to mismatches on a regular basis. Ball can initiate the offense, move without the ball, or whatever is required to elevate this short-handed squad. He displays nice defensive instincts and rebounds the ball at a solid rate, but understands his strengths and overall calling card as an offensive machine.”
“Ball came in as a highly-regarded prospect and one that continues to see his stock rise and one can see why. He is simply wired to score the ball any way possible and now that he is part of the 2023 class, it makes him even more interesting. Such a smooth outside shot and always seems to be around the ball.”
“Ball played really well on Day 2, scoring the ball effectively, whether it was rising from behind the arc or his mid-range shot, as well as using his 6’5 long frame to finish over defenders with a little bounce to his game. Ball is tremendously active, making those little plays, using his hands well to keep the ball active, and has a soft touch with his shot. It was good to see him again in action and you can see why D1 schools are coming more his way.”