On Sunday, Phenom Hoops traveled out to the heart of Winston-Salem, North Carolina to preview some quality talent within one of the top up-and-coming programs in Team BOND. There was an abundance of appeal and intrigue inside the gym, featuring an interesting variety of prospects from 17U and 16U squads. Although we were able to watch both teams, this article will take a closer look at their 17U group…

 6’1 ’23 Will Gray (East Forsyth)

There was an undeniable surplus of talent on display, and Will Gray was arguably the most impressive of them all. Unlike an overwhelming majority of prospects nowadays, Gray embraces and emphasizes defense as well as any guard in the state. He understands how to make a truly nonstop impact on both ends of the floor, setting the tone with his defensive prowess and allowing the offense to come naturally. Gray possesses incredible instincts at the point of attack and accumulates more deflections than a vast majority of high school players. He’s clearly multiple steps ahead of most, forcing turnovers with relative ease and effortlessly making his presence felt in transition. Gray is smart, athletic, and an exceptional penetrator with the ability to touch the paint whenever he desires. Although there aren’t a ton of folks talking about him, expect to hear Gtray’s name as a premier talent within North Carolina’s Class of 2023 going forward. 

6’4 ’22 Jeremiah Scales (Glenn)

After shining as an obvious leader for Glenn during the high school season, Scales continued to stand out as one of the better players at Team BOND practice. The big, strong, tough wing prospect was already a major piece within this program last summer and looks likely to return to his role over the upcoming months. Though Scales typically looks to assert himself from the elbows-in, he displayed a consistent three-level scoring arsenal at practice while maintaining his usual production as a rebounder and versatile defender. Scales will certainly play at the next level, so it’ll be interesting to watch his recruitment unfold throughout the coming years. 

6’6 ’23 Julius Harrison (Piedmont Classical)

Over the last year, few guys on this list have improved as much as Harrison—who now stands out as a versatile cog on either side of the ball. Between his size, athleticism, blossoming skillset, and adaptability, Harrison has no issue naturally finding production. Harrison scored from multiple levels, secured extra possessions, and continued to highlight his abilities as a natural glue-guy. Like each player listed, he should have ample opportunity to play at the next level.

6’4 ’22 Josh Scovens (Page)

Like Harrison, it’s very difficult to ignore the incredible development of Scovens over the last twelve months. After transitioning from an undersized big to a versatile forward, Scovens has quietly become one of the better, more productive players across the triad. He’s developed a reliable arsenal of perimeter skills, including vision, ball-handling, and reliable shooting prowess. Scovens is also a quality athlete with a strong, fluid frame. Additionally, he has done a tremendous job of maintaining his interior greatness around the basket with a blend of IQ, touch, and timing. College coaches would be wise to start offering.

6’6 ’22 Anthony Sellars (Quality Education)

It should come as no surprise to see Sellars listed, as he was clearly one of the most enticing prospects in the gym. He’s long, wiry, and a powerful athlete with a natural set of tools and clear upside remaining on both ends of the floor. Sellars was arguably the most explosive player on display and, at 6-foot-6, has no issue showcasing his aerial abilities. He can score the ball from all levels and understands how to create for himself or operate within the flow of the action. Sellars is great in transition and utilizes his second burst to rebound the ball well from inside the paint. 

Share to...