2025 Darnerian Gibson (NLPB)
Gibson had a good overall performance at the May Madness, as he was putting on an offensive show throughout. The 5’10 point guard displayed speed, creativity, a quick first step, tight handles, and the ability to be a true scorer from multiple levels. He picks his spots well, showing tremendous range from behind the arc but also being able to get opponents on his hip and attack the defense. At his size, his ability to put a ton of pressure on the defense is impressive, along with his ability to score over defenders.
2027 Christian Jones (Village Warriors)
Jones has been an under-the-radar type guard, but he deserves his accolades and praise in what he brings each time he steps on the court, especially at Phenom Hoops events. He is a guard who can fill it up when he wants and did so throughout the event, finishing with 40 points in one game alone. Jones is such a crafty and gifted scorer who can truly hurt you from inside and outside. Confident release and shot maker with deep range, but can blow by defenders and get paint touches consistently as well.
2026 Amare Cooper (Team Richmond)
Cooper was a new name personally for me, but throughout the weekend, he captured my attention with his overall feel for the game. He set the tone and was the clear focal point in the offense. Cooper is a well-rounded guard who knows how to run the show, create for himself, be a playmaker for others, and plays with pace, along with being under control. He brings a good frame that allows him to be physical, but I truly liked how effective he was in scoring all over.
2028 Sherod McCormick (CP3)
McCormick continues to flourish as a leader with the ball in his hands for the CP3 2028 team. He leads the charge, attacking and pushing well in transition. McCormick brings a strong feel in being able to not only get downhill and finish over defenders, He continues to prove that he is a true floor general, leading the offense, directing, penetrating, and kicking to open teammates, and scoring well with touch over defenders as well as knocking down shots.
2026 Kellum Brown (Garner Road National)
Brown had a memorable performance to secure a championship for Garner Road, as he poured in 29 points in the game and really put his name on many lists. The 6’4 guard was able to demonstrate good athleticism, the ability to finish at the rim, shoots the ball well from multiple levels, attacks well off the bounce, and plays with a tremendous motor overall. His blend of length, unselfishness, effective scoring, and athleticism makes him a highly intriguing guard here in North Carolina.