The Phenom Hoop State Fall League has once again proven to be a platform where talent shines and hidden prospects make their names known. Each weekend, new players step into the spotlight, showcasing skills that deserve recognition from fans, media, and college coaches alike. While the headlines may often go to the established stars, it’s the under-the-radar performers who continue to impress and raise their stock. In this series, we highlight a group of players who stood out with their play and could be on the verge of bigger things. Here are a few hidden gems from the Fall League that you’ll want to keep a close eye on moving forward.
2026 Cameron Thompson (Cougars)
We have talked about Thompson over and over again, but we are here to remind everyone one more time about this rising senior’s game and impact. College coaches should be looking hard his way, and I’m eager to see his full game on display this season at Chambers. Thompson brings a lot to the table with his impact and skillset. Offensively, he understands how to attack and create for himself, as he can be explosive at the rim but also shows a much-improved jumper as well. He also understands how to create opportunities for himself and his team, making this high-energy plays, bringing a strong motor, and just outworking other opponents. I heard so many schools are always looking for players like him; well, Thompson will be one to look at hard this season.
2026 Aziz Al-Jurhanni (Fayettenam Soldiers)
Al-Jurhanni is a newer prospect personally for me, but he is one who does hold a D1 offer already. I was eager to see him in action in Week 2 of the Fall League, and I wasn’t disappointed. The strong, physical guard grabs your attention immediately with how explosive he can be on the court. He has no issue putting opponents on a poster as he attacks the rim with ease. But his ability to break down and create for himself, as well as be a playmaker for others, also impressed. Al-Jurhanni brings a tremendous frame that allows him to be physical, but he understands how to set the tone for his team. He proved to me that he is a hidden gem waiting to be found here in NC.
2028 Brayden Milner (Fire Babies)
Going to the Class of 2028, I was highly interested in seeing what Milner could bring to the table. He has stood out in my eyes before, but missed a lot of time recently due to an injury. Well, he is back on the court, and it certainly shows that he has been putting in the work. Not only bigger but also stronger and more athletic than last year, Milner is proving that he has added and worked on his overall game. He can take contact, still knock down shots outside, finish strong at the rim, and brings great size at 6’5 i,n allowing him to be used in a variety of ways. I’m here to say that he could be a player on the rise in NC for his class.
2027 MJ Gladden (Greyhounds)
Gladden put together a standout performance in Week 2, impressively leading the Statesville Greyhounds. He looks poised for a big season, and Sunday was another reminder of why he’s a name to keep on your radar. At 6’4, Gladden wowed the crowd with high-flying dunks, showing off his explosiveness and athleticism at the rim, but he also knocked down shots with confidence from behind the arc. He created separation, displayed consistent range, ran the floor well in transition, and made his presence felt defensively. It was an eye-opening show, and there’s every reason to believe he’ll carry that momentum into the high school season.
