This weekend, Phenom Hoops is hosting our annual North Carolina Top 80, Sophomore 40, and Freshman 40 Camps at Rise Indoor Sports. These camps bring together top players throughout the state and pit them against each other in competition. There have been countless memorable moments, storylines, and performances over the past decade. However, the emergence of the Sophomore 40 and Freshman 40 has expanded the pool of campers considerably. In preparation for the weekend, here are some potential matchups that could be intriguing. Remember, these are hypothetical matchups, as rosters are still being finalized. Let’s take a look…
Xavier Hall vs. Hudson Hatch
Given their respective status as the top two big men slated to attend, a matchup between Hall and Hatch would be very entertaining. Hall is the top player in North Carolina’s Class of 2028. He possesses a massive frame with a legitimate interior presence on both ends of the floor. Hall displays terrific power, rebounding instincts, and defensive timing. Considering how he’s willing to put anyone on a poster, he should be poised for a highlight-filled camp. Meanwhile, Hatch transferred from South Carolina and should immediately be among the top big men in the state. He already has legit size with long arms, fluidity, and the ability to produce as a low-maintenance piece. Hatch rebounds, blocks shots, and operates well out of the dunker spot. This could potentially be the best individual matchup in sophomore camp.
Mekhi Allen vs. All
It’s common knowledge that Allen is trending up as much as any prospect in the state, and there’s no better stage to showcase his progression than camp. He’s a long, athletic shot-maker whose game continues to expand with each viewing. This setting should allow him to highlight his ability to produce with or without the ball in his hands. Allen is currently the top wing in this class, so it’ll be exciting to see who challenges him.
Chacho Womack vs. The Basket
Although we alluded to it in the first entry, it’s worth reiterating that Womack led all scorers across his four games at Freshman 40 last year. Twelve months later, and it’s easy to see history repeating itself. Womack is still an incredibly polished scorer who can apply pressure from virtually any area on the floor. He’s a reliable shooter and self-creator who mixes it up extremely well to keep defenses guessing. Womack is only going to become increasingly unstoppable as his body develops, so it’s impressive to see what he’s already able to do. Can he do it again?