Phenom Hoops got a special treat on Wednesday afternoon, checking in on a little college ball action. Patrick O’Brien went out to Catawba to check in on the talent they will be having on the court this season. What makes this group so interesting is that it is full of Phenom Alums and players that played in the state of North Carolina, along with a few other talented prospects. Let’s dive into the roster and what we saw!
Starting off, we are going to look at few players that have been on the college courts before and should bring some nice experience to the table. Houston Baptist transfer Myles Pierre is back home and brings back his tough mentality as well as being a true point guard that sees the floor and has strong handles. He should help run the show this season at Catawba and can be a pest on defense. You also have to look at junior Ray Kowalski, a 6’3 prospect from Concord and a transfer from the University of Denver. He saw a little action in 2019-20 but should see an increase at Catawba, as he was terrific in creating shots for himself and from all levels. Sharp-shooter with deep range also returns to Catawba as junior Michael Hueitt Jr. should certainly help this team. He continues to show what he did in high school and has earned experience on the court as well. Junior Myles Washington is hoping to see some more action and should, as the strong-bodied prospect and former Hough standout returns back home, bringing the ability to play and operate from multiple positions, bring a physical feel, and create opportunities for himself.
Now, to look at a few players that should really shine and could be ones to really watch. First, 6’8 Bernard Pelote looks to take what he learned last year and really take off for this team. He plays with such versatility and impacts the game in an array of ways on both sides. But he showcased his confident shot with good size, as he hopes to take the next step and help lead this team. The program also seems excited about what senior 6’5 guard Trevion Lamar can bring to the table and why not. The Texas Permian Basin transfer averaged nearly 18 points per game last year, along with 7.0 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game. He should be another leader for this team and really help on the offensive end as well.
Now to look at players that should help in areas but also could see some significant minutes or provide depth. First off, watch out for freshman Kris Robinson, who plays poised well beyond his years (learning that at Combine Academy). He continues to play at a terrific pace, showcases a great IQ, and can be deadly with his outside game. 6’5 Caleb Robinson brings nice size, can help be a ball-handler on the court, and can get to the rim while also playing multiple positions due to his frame. Redshirt freshman Dre Nelson is another prospect with size but also showcases a bit more physicality on the floor, as he can help in several areas and on the boards. Freshman Peyton Gerald was terrific when watching him, especially with his length, his mobility, and his skillset at 6’8. He could be one that earns some big minutes early on with the activity level he brings to the court. Sophomore 6’10 Ben Bowen is back, as he is a forward that can help stretch the floor and brings a bit more size down low in the post. 6’8 Todd Burt is another North Carolina native that should continue to see his game improve. He brings great energy and is a competitor, but with his 6’8 frame and ability to put the ball on the deck, he could create some tough matchups for teams. And let us not forget freshman O’Mazeon Tinsley, who is a small but tough guard, plays hard and scrappy on the defensive end and is quick on the offensive end.
Catawba will be a fun team to watch, as they will be able to play fast, they have multiple shooters, and a nice blend of physicality, length, and experience on this year’s team. The coaching staff seems to be very excited about this group and with how many players from North Carolina on the team, they should have the attention of many around the state!