Last weekend, Phenom Hoops traveled up to Richmond, Virginia, as we hit the finish line for the travel ball season. The event hosted a slew of intriguing prospects and talented teams, including various next-level pieces. Although we’d previously seen most of these squads throughout the spring and summer, this was our first opportunity to watch this version of Richmond Magic. Only in the Class of 2028, they have several meaningful targets for college coaches. Let’s take a look at some of their key pieces…
Although they have a lot of talent, Tim Neville clearly stood out as the leader and focal point of this group. He’s a highly skilled forward with IQ, mobility, and inside-out ability. At 6-foot-4, Neville possesses soft touch around the basket, smooth perimeter shooting, and useful creation skill for his size/position. He’s a sharp passer from the block and sees the floor well to set up others at a quality rate. Neville can initiate the offense as needed, but truly appears comfortable operating from anywhere on the floor and finding opportunities. He’s an active defender and rebounder who frequently outworks opponents for extra possessions on both ends of the floor.
Between his playmaking and lethal shooting prowess, Nathan Tate consistently stood out as a difference-maker for this group. He’s a well-rounded lead guard who highlighted the ability to touch the paint, move without the ball, and knock down jumpers from beyond the arc. Tate displays a useful handle and solid pace to attack off the dribble, but is more than comfortable at operating as a spot-up threat. He does a great job of finding open space and capitalizing on his opportunities. Tate is a capable shooting threat off the catch or dribble, finishes well for his size, and displays a variety of runners/floaters. He’s also a scrappy on-ball defender.
Rounding out this group, guys like Kam Cain and Donovan Townes offer clear intrigue as prospects with obvious long-term upside. Cain is an incredibly strong, powerful athlete with a high motor, terrific explosiveness, and the ability to consistently make plays on both ends of the floor. He’s able to physically overwhelm players with his blend of size, strength, and overall athleticism. Cain flies around to secure rebounds and force turnovers, which allow him to get out in transition and finish through contact or above the rim. Meanwhile, Townes possesses a long, rangy frame with toughness, physicality and shot-making ability. He’s able to knock down shots and fill in the gaps offensively, but also makes his presence felt through his activity on the glass and rugged defensive identity.