Phenom Hoops is diving into the upcoming season, and we are bringing several previews and discussions about teams and players to watch out for. We are looking into several conferences to see who could be looking strong early on based on the information we have and from last year’s results. Take a look at these teams below, as we think these could be programs to watch out for in each.
Carolina International
This is a program that lost some key pieces last year but Coach Ewell and company have plenty of weapons once again to make a run at a conference title. When you talk about this team, 2025 6’0 Landon Griffin is one that will look to be the key returner from last year, as they will need him to help lead this offense. But he will have plenty of help; 2025 David Anderson is a guard who can create and knock down shots, putting up some impressive performances in the past. It also could be a breakout year for 2026 KJ Shouse, as he has all the opportunities to show what he can prove and lead with this team.
Queen’s Grant
This is a different program, as Coach Joe Badgett has a very talented team with an array of mixture of experience. As far as experience is concerned, Queen’s Grant will rely on players like 2025 Ian Howard, 2025 Geronimo Clark, 2025 Wesley White, and others as they understand what it will take to rack up the wins but also allows these players to shine on a big stage. But Queen’s Grant also has terrific young talent that will certainly be names you hear more about. 2028 6’5 Mekhi Allen has been one we have talked about on countless occasions and already has the attention of college coaches. 2028 6’8 Chase Smith is another player that could be trending at a national level as well. And again, this is a team that has plenty of other names that should bring a balanced and talented team that hopes to compete for a conference title.