This past weekend, Phenom Hoops had a special opportunity to travel down to Lafayette, Louisiana for Mal Mundy’s Louisiana Top 40 Statement Session. Between the talent, competition, and general hospitality, it made for an amazing weekend. The slew of prospects on display at Southside High School made for an entertaining day and ultimately led to a variety of offers for these players. We’ve already put out pieces highlighting some of the top standouts and interior pieces, and this article will take a closer look at five highly differing perimeter prospects worthy of attention…
6’0 ’22 Reginald Stoner (North Central)
There were a ton of standouts from the lead guard position, and it felt like everyone in attendance was buzzing about Reginald Stoner. He’s a quick, heady floor general with a quality penetration sense and overall feel for the game. Stoner displayed toughness with the ball in his hands, consistently attacking the opposition and finishing through contact. Additionally, he forced turnovers and contained his assignment extremely well defensively—leading to numerous fast-break opportunities. Stoner stood out as one of the more dynamic guards on display, and should have the attention of college coaches going forward.
6’3 ’22 Joe Manning (Bossier)
Easily one of the most productive scorers on display, Joe Manning showcased a pretty well-rounded game throughout the event. He’s a reliable option from all levels, both off the catch and dribble, and can make his presence felt in transition or the half court. Manning also proved to be a useful passer, rebounder, and all-around defender for his size/position. He showed the ability to fill it up as a scorer, but has the necessary skillset to mesh with any collection of teammates. Like the others, expect Manning to have various schools vying for his services.
6’5 ’22 Dorian Finister (Carver)
It’s easy to get excited about someone like Dorian Finister, given the modern-day fascination with bigger guards. At a long, fluid 6-foot-5, he legitimately ran the team as a point guard throughout the event. Finister is arguably at his best in an up-tempo setting, but still looks more than comfortable operating as a primary creator and setting up others in the half-court. He’s smart, tough, and utilizes his blend of size and athleticism to overwhelm opposing guards. Finister displayed sharp vision, scoring ability from all levels, and regularly outworked his assignment defensively. Add in his award for leading the camp in assists, and scholarship-level programs should be closely eyeing Finister.
6’1 ’22 Bryce Weinmunson (Mandeville)
Typically, most players who fit the “glue-guy” mold need to possess size or versatility in order to affect all facets of the game—but not Bryce Weinmunson. Despite being a sturdy 6-foot-1 guard, he was easily one of the most productive all-around performers on display. Weinmunson’s shot wasn’t falling (though he highlighted great form/mechanics), so he found other ways to make his presence felt. He offered a tough, high-motor approach and naturally found opportunities as a result. Weinmunson rebounded, moved without the ball, made extra passes, and stood out numerous times defensively (largely due to his strong positioning). His ability to fill in the gaps would make him an asset to plenty of teams.
6’2 ’22 Donavan Seamster (Woodlawn-Shrew)
Though often overlooked, steady players like Donavan Seamster can be definite difference-makers in the right situation. He’s another fairly well-rounded guard prospect who doesn’t necessarily require the ball to make a lasting impact. Though Seamster is more than capable of creating opportunities for himself and others, his perimeter shooting and overall spot-up ability stood out the most. Seamster possesses a fluid, consistent release with IQ and the understanding of how to effectively attack closeouts. He also defends and rebounds well for his position.