Phenom Hoops traveled out in the Charlotte area, this time to check in on Butler high school. Coming off a 4-5 season and going 3-4 in the Southwestern 4A, the Bulldogs are hoping they can build off from last season and make strides this upcoming season. Let’s dive into what we saw in our latest open gym.
Butler will have a few intriguing names to watch for this season, first starting off with one of the leaders for this group. Junior 6’4 Zion McDuffie averaged nearly nine points and six rebounds last season but will now be counted on to produce more this year. He is the most athletic player on the roster, has good length, can attack and finish at the rim, and be an impact player on the defensive end. 2023 Ty Black is another name to really watch for, as he has a pure shooting stroke from all levels and is coming off a summer in which he averaged 21 points per game; could be their leading scorer this season.
2024 Bryson Heath is a point guard that has the experience last year, runs the offense, creates well for others and for himself, and helps on the defensive end. Also watch for another sophomore in 6’4 Ty Showalter, as he is a skilled, long prospect that has a good IQ for the game and can rise over defenders.
2023 Steph Soutzos and 2023 Evan Youngblood should be nice pieces and provide depth as guards. Both play with a good IQ and can knock down shots. 2023 Stanley Holloway is a strong prospect that helps on the boards. 2022 Aaron Colbert plays extremely hard and with a good motor, really making plays for his team and being an unselfish player. 2022 Ryan Graves brings good size at 6’4 and comes from Metrolina last season. 2023 6’4 Troy Lewis was also another prospect with size and should provide help on the boards as well.
2023 6’4 Peyton Scott will be a name to also remember. Though he wasn’t on the court due to football, he is Butler’s most physical player and plays with a great motor. He looks to bounce back after facing an injury-plagued year last season.