Best Game: Ridge View Vs. Morgan County
H/T: AC Flora Vs. Hartsville
On a day that was filled with highly competitive games, two games really stood out. The deciding factor goes to the game that went into double overtime. Ridge View unsigned senior Crosby James hit the shot that sent the game into overtime. Crosby was great throughout the game, but so was the backcourt from Morgan County. Stevin Clark and Tyrin Lawrence were great, both having their moments of dominance throughout. Jevon Benson and Walyn Napper from Ridge View were both consistently good as well.
This game was filled with college level prospects, who came out and showed to be college level players. The Crosby James,' Stevin Clark and Tyrin Lawrence were all three Division 1 guards who should see heavy recruitment come the late period.
Best Long Term Prospect: John Butler Jr
H/T: Jeriah Coleman, Kadin Shedrick
Butler comes into the event ranked among the nation’s Top 15 sophomores. He showcased why throughout, as he was doing things that 7 footers just are not supposed to be doing. He was able to take it off the bounce, he knocked down jump shots and showed some shake and natural fluidity. Butler will need to put on some weight, but he is a special prospect and one who, even at 15, may still be a little low in the long run. National recruit, who should be watched by every coach in the country.
Most Dominant: Holly Springs Front Court
What Holly Springs is able to do in the half court set is just abnormal at the high school level. Led by Virginia commit Kadin Shedrick, they run a great high low. Shedrick, on his own accord, is able to score with his back to the basket or by facing up and attacking off the bounce. He was great last night, showcasing next level ability on both ends of the floor. 6’6″ junior Kaleb Scott is the revelation. He is in the mold of former Texas Longhorn Gary Johnson, at a lengthy, strong and explosive 6’6″. He has a smooth jump shot and ball skills to go along with a back to the basket game. Both players can really pass the ball and have a natural understanding of angles. Coming off the bench they have 6’8″ sophomore Donte Kiesenhofer who has great size and touch.
What really stands out is all of their ability to defend. They can all move their feet and defend on the block. Their switchable and have great instincts. They were truly dominating.
Best Freshman: Julian Phillips'
H/T to Jerome Bayo
This was close, Bayo was a defensive dynamo, blocking shots left and right. However, Phillips game continues to expand. Already carrying an Iowa State offer, and ranked among the nation’s Top 75 prospects, Phillips is truly expanding out to the wing. Standing at 6’6″, he has ball skills and touch. He shot the ball well and got to his spots off the bounce. The sky is the limit here, and continue to watch for his development.
Best Guard: Trae Hannibal
H/T to Chico Carter, Tre Jackson, Tyrin Lawrence
This event is loaded up with guards. Great guard, guards who play at a high level. However, it was Hannibal who stood out above the rest. He had a truly dominating performance, able to impose his will at every level of the game. What he did that really stood out was rebound the ball. He is a good defender and able to get anywhere he wants off the bounce. With Frank Martin watching on, Hannibal looked the part of Top 100 prospect.
Best Unsigned Senior: Tyrin Lawrence
H/T: Raishaun Brown, Crosby James
Again, there were some great unsigned senior performances, but it was Lawrence who played the most eye opening. Standing 6’4″, the lefty has a smooth approach to the game. He knocked down shots, created plays and showed the ability to handle in the half court. Never rushed, Lawrence made big play after big play and did so with flair. His recruitment will be interesting coming forward, could see mid majors across the board falling in love with him.