Last weekend, Phenom Hoops traveled out to Rise Indoor Sports in Bermuda Run, North Carolina, for another exciting two-day stretch of competition. As always, there was a ton of talent in the gym and lots of impressive performers gearing up for the upcoming Live period. We’ve entered the stage when new faces have begun to emerge and draw attention from spectators and media outlets. Obviously, the landscape has changed and next-level opportunities have become increasingly scarce, but the talent pool remains loaded with worthy prospects. Quietly among the more intriguing pieces on display, James Hunt has the tools to be a name worth noting. Let’s take a closer look …
It’s clear that he’s started to visibly grow into his body over the last twelve months, and now looks physically prepared to take the next step in his progression. Hunt has gotten bigger, stronger, and more athletic, which makes him a problem for opponents on both ends of the floor. Plenty of players have size, but he actually knows how to utilize it to his advantage. Hunt operates with terrific energy at all times, which allows him to regularly make hustle plays, outwork opponents on the glass, and put himself in position to affect the game on either side of the ball.
Hunt is a useful offensive piece who mainly operates around the basket, where he’s able to consistently finish through contact or above the rim. He excels in transition, but also cuts well and sets himself up to make a constant impact on the offensive glass. Hunt utilizes his length to reliably block or alter shots defensively, but can also switch onto perimeter players and contain opponents with relative ease. Right now, his game is still developing, but it’s easy to see all the ways he’s able to impact a game. Should he continue on his current trajectory, Hunt will definitely be a name for coaches to monitor.