Continuing to hit the road for Phenom Hoop Report, Patrick O'Brien headed to Kannapolis, NC to check out A.K. Brown, a team that finished 21-8 last season under head coach Shelwyn Klutz. Now, the Wonders look to build off that season and look to make noise in the state of North Carolina once again.
When watching this team, one can see that they have a nice blend of talent but they will also be able to play aggressive, getting downhill and attacking. They will also look to get it done on the defensive side, as they hope it can translate into easy points.
But let's take a look at the roster this season, as these are a few players to keep an eye on.
2022 64 Kheni Briggs
Last year, Briggs showcased that he can be a go-to scorer, averaging 14.2 points per game. He will be depended to do that once again this season for the Wonders, using his strength, size, and physicality to overpower defenders, get to the rim and score. That is what he does best, as he can be a freight train to the rim and there aren't to many that will be able to outwork him, along with stay in front of him. Briggs also displayed a great feel in finding his teammates in open situations, as well as a smooth jumper. He will be tough to stop this season and will be looked at as a leader for this group.
2021 6'3 Amare Haynie
Haynie has an incredible length to his game and plays with such a smooth feel with the ball in his hands. He covers a lot of ground due to his wingspan as a guard but mix that in with terrific ball skills, change of direction, and hesitation, Haynie brings trouble offensively. He also isn't afraid to knock down jumpers, shooting 36 percent last year from three, which certainly opens up lanes for him in the paint. His ability to read defenders and be creative on the floor is unique as well.
2021 6'4 Nick Colson
Colson still has room to develop as he works on his craft but the junior wing prospect has a great feel to score inside and out due to his frame. He consistently showed that he can be a threat from behind the arc but also brings athleticism for this team to stretch the floor and attack. Colson showcased that he can score in an array of ways and has some intriguing talent to watch but we shall see if can step up to the challenge from his sophomore season.
2020 6'0 Amari Grier
A veteran for this team, Grier wasn't able to make the open gym but he will for sure be counted on to be that veteran guard, mixing in with the other ball handlers for this team. Last year, he averaged 9.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 2.8 steals per game, really being a do-it-all type prospect for the Wonders.
2020 6'6 Jamari Glenn
Glenn brings the size AL Brown will need this year but with this team, they will be able to spread the ball out and Glenn will be apart of that. He has the ability to step out and create mismatches along the outside, as well as rebound and create extra opportunities. For Glenn now, it will be interesting to see if he can put the full package together and become a big threat with his versatility.
Depth:
2020 6'1 Daqyaruis Foggie and 2020 6'3 Dujon Eecles will provide much-needed depth for this team this year as well, while 2022 Bryson Chajon could also be in the mixture with his ability to score the basketball.