Hickory Grove Christian
Coach Jim Rhodes
Hickory Grove finished 14-12 during the 2016-17 season in the brutal NCISAA 2A classification and a 6-4 record in the Metrolina Basketball standing. Coach Rhodes will have a nice blend of veterans in seniors 6’3 Austin Hadden and 6’1 KJ Freeman, junior 6’5 junior Regin Larson and a pair of freshman in 6’3 AJ Smith and 6’6 Jacori Owens. While Coach Rhodes will rely heavily on his senior duo, the addition of his freshmen may be the secret weapon especially with the length and shot blocking ability of 6’6 Jacori Owens.
Senior Leaders
6’2 ’18 KJ Freeman
We have seen KJ Freeman countless times this past summer and each time came away impressed. No matter the venue, KJ was consistent with his approach to the game. He plays with a high motor, relentless energy, and provided impeccable leadership on the court. BK can score from all three levels and has outstanding range on his jump shot. Coach Rhodes stated, “BJ is a shooter with range. He is a great defender and gets lots of deflections.” In addition to being a hard worker on the hardwood, BJ sports an impressive 3.8 GPA
6’3 ’18 Austin Hadden
Austin is just a solid all-around player. Versatility is his calling card and has the ability to shoot off the catch or create his own shot off the dribble/bounce. Coach Rhodes stated, “Austin is an athletic do it all player. He shoots the three, makes good decisions and finishes through contact.” In addition, Austin can play and guard multiple positions and rebounds well for his size/position.
Mr. Steady
6’5 ’19 Regin Larson
We’ve had the opportunity to watch Regin several times at our Phenom 150 camp and through various travel ball settings. We’re talking about a guard with good size and solid fundamentals. He understands the team first approach and is a perfect “glue type” player and scores within the framework of the offense. Coach Rhodes stated, “Regin is a do it all guard. He shoots with range, great at creating for others and guard’s multiple positions. He is a great talker and overall team defender.”
The Freshmen
6’6 ’21 Jacori Owens
We first saw Jacori when he was in the eighth grade at the NC Junior Phenom camp. We could tell then that Jacori would be one to watch. He has a huge upside and has unlimited potential. While he is still somewhat raw, he did some really nice things on the low block. He’s a two-handed rebounder and showcased good timing with his shot blocking ability. Coach Rhodes stated, “Jacor is a long defender with a huge wingspan. He can block shots and move his feet well enough to guard on the perimeter and the post. He has a nice 15-foot jump shot and will be one for D1 schools to track. He has a size 18 shoe so he had room to grow!”
6’3 ’21 AJ Smith
Coach Rhodes stated, “AJ is a physical defender. He can get tot eh rim and finish with contact. He shoots the 3-pointer extremely well. AJ really understands how to play and has a high basketball IQ for a freshman. He is going to surprise people this year!”