This past weekend, Phenom Hoops concluded our final live period of the travel ball season with our tenth annual Summer Havoc. No matter where the event is held (Spartanburg, Rock Hill, or Bermuda Run), Summer Havoc has consistently put prospects in a position to be seen by all levels of college coaches. This year’s edition was no different. The three-day event featured an impressive mix of Division I, II, and III (in addition to JUCO and NAIA) prospects. Coaches were buzzing about several teams, like Elite One and their slew of next-level pieces. Let’s take a closer look at their group…
Although each guy on this roster seems to make an impact in their own way, it would be impossible to ignore everything Zion Williams has shown as a focal point. Due to limited playing time in the high school season, he entered these last few live periods as a relative unknown. However, that didn’t last long. Williams quickly asserted himself as a leader, especially on offense, and turned the heads of college coaches with his notable play. At 6-foot-3, he’s a polished scorer from all levels and possesses a nice blend of handle, athleticism, and creation instincts. Williams mixes it up well to keep defenses guessing and is comfortable toggling between playing on and off the ball. He’s a reliable defender and utilizes his size well to make his presence felt on the glass. Clearly a college player, Williams definitely has a place at the next level.
Meanwhile, their other veteran piece is Brylee Austin. He’s a smart, unselfish floor general who dictates the action with pace while consistently setting up others in scoring positions. Austin is capable of applying scoring pressure as needed, but doesn’t look to force the action. He breaks down opponents, touches the paint, and makes the right read with the ball in his hands. On the other end, Austin is a quality defender at the point of attack. His steady two-way presence makes him a low-maintenance leader for this group.
Meanwhile, year-round teammates Eian Bailey and Christian Wilson both stand out as major keys to the success of this group. Both guys are extremely tough, high-motor pieces who show a willingness to do whatever possible to provide their team with an edge. Bailey is a strong, physical, rugged wing with a nonstop motor and the ability to play way bigger than his listed height. So much of his value comes from defense, rebounding, and making hustle plays, but Bailey is more than capable of making the extra pass or filling in the gaps as an offensive threat. Similarly, Wilson operates as the main interior piece for this group. He’s a useful finisher and floor-spacer who scores as needed but doesn’t require a ton of touches to make an impact. Wilson plays with phenomenal energy and doesn’t shy away from physical play on either end of the floor. He does a great job of battling hard for rebounds and defending big men in the post.
Rounding out this group, guys like Henry Smith and QJ Young fill meaningful roles. Smith is a well-rounded wing with size, scrappiness, and perimeter shooting. He knows how to hit jumpers, defend with energy, and make an impact without the ball in his hands. Despite being the lone junior on this roster, Young is starting to tap into his upside as a long-term prospect. We will talk more extensively about his potential breakout season later this week, but it’s easy to see his appeal with this team. His size, skill, and shot-making ability already make him a real problem for opponents. Young continues to develop his body and get stronger, which will only continue to raise his overall ceiling. He has as much appeal as anyone on the roster.