On Wednesday, Phenom Hoops traveled out to Oak Ridge, North Carolina, as Northwest Guilford prepared to host Salisbury High School. Between the two squads, there were more than enough storylines to justify excitement about this contest. Coach Reavis and the Vikings have effortlessly maintained their status as one of the better teams in the Triad throughout the last decade. On the other side, Salisbury has been consistently successful in their own right. Now, they’re squad has an intriguing mix of talent, young and experienced, and should only continue getting better over the coming years. Regardless, both teams entered this game with something to prove. Let’s see how it played out…

Things kicked off and Northwest immediately took control of the lead, showcasing superior depth and balance in their overall approach. After a 18-14 first quarter, it was only more of the same. Connor Ballou and Jaylen Cross combined for 22 of the Vikings’ 33 first-half points; Cameron Stout provided 10 of Salisbury’s 21 first-half points. Everything seemed to be clicking for Northwest while the Hornets struggled with fouls and inconsistent shooting. This continued through the third period, as the Vikings extended their lead to 53-37. After trailing for vast majority of the game, Salisbury began to surge. They Stout was recharged and Jayden Harris came alive, and the entire team applied strong defensive pressure. This led to miscues and a dry spell for the Vikings, but they quickly tightened up going into crunch time and ultimately secured a 70-58 victory over Salisbury.

Northwest Guilford:

6’4 ’24 Jaylen Cross

It would be very difficult for one to watch this game and not regard Jaylen Cross as the best player on the floor. The talent is evident. Right now, he’s able to utilize his feel, length, quickness, and craftiness to apply scoring pressure from all levels. Cross often works as the primary creator, where he’s proven more than reliable at setting up others, and does a nice job of consistently mixing it up offensively. He hit jumpers, pulled-up from midrange, and attacked the basket whenever possible—showing the ability to finish with finesse or athleticism. Cross got involved for rebounds and regularly intercepted passing lanes to force turnovers on defense. Aside from a few minor turnovers, it was a very high-level showing for the young guard prospect. He continues to develop as a natural leader. Cross will be incredible if he maintains his hunger and sustains his current trajectory as a Division I prospect. Final stats: 23 points (11-16 FG), 3 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals.

6’0 ’22 Connor Ballou (Bridgewater commit)

Although most folks should already be on board, Connor Ballou’s steady, straightforward game makes it easy to appreciate everything he brings to a team. He’s not flashy or explosive, but he’s extremely reliable and understands how to produce within the confines of the Vikings’ structure. Ballou runs a team with IQ and poise, never getting rushed or forced into situations by the opposition, and offers a very balanced offensive presence with the ball in his hands. He hit three-pointers (both off the catch and bounce) at an impressive percentage, set up others at every opportunity, and consistently made his presence felt on defense. Had he needed to, Ballou could’ve easily chased higher scoring totals in this game. Final stats: 17 points and 4 assists.

6’5 ’22 Drew Watkins

While guys like Hartzell, Harbaugh, and Eller brought clear value to the Vikings, Drew Watkins was arguably their third-most productive guy in this contest. His tough, energetic, inside-out presence makes him a very useful piece for this group. Watkins loves to work around the elbows, but also spaces the floor from distance and shows a willingness to operate out of the post. He finishes well around the basket, moves nicely for his size, and works hard on the glass. Watkins is a college-level prospect, and would be a quality addition for various programs. Final stats: 11 points and 8 rebounds. 

Other Noteworthy Contributors:

5’11 ’22 Jackson Hartzell- 6 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals

6’5 ’23 Wyatt Harbaugh- 5 points, 9 rebounds

6’3 ’22 Aidan Eller- 8 points, 4 rebounds

Salisbury:

6’2 ’22 Cameron Stout

It was pretty clear that Cameron Stout is regarded as the veteran leader of this Hornets’ roster, both in production and the way he carries himself on the court. Although he pretty much had the green light from the opening tip, Stout looked to get others involved and take advantage of easy opportunities as much as possible. He battled on the glass, defended multiple positions, and operated as a primary creator offensively. Stout scored the ball from all levels and consistently rose up whenever his team needed him most. Final stats: 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists.

6’5 ’24 Jayden Harris

After collecting an offer from Western Carolina earlier this summer, it’s easy to see the intrigue and overall appeal with someone like Jayden Harris. He didn’t necessarily have an efficient scoring night, but did show scoring prowess from all levels. Harris possesses a long, wiry frame with the blend of skill, mobility, and athleticism to be a perimeter player over the continued future. He continually got better throughout the course of the game, especially defensively and in terms of his ability to get to the line (and convert). Harris produced, but it was an up-and-down game overall. However, the upside is clear. College coaches should be monitoring going forward. Final stats: 19 points, 5 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 3 steals. 

Other Noteworthy Contributors:

6’1 ’24 Mike Geter- 10 points, 7 rebounds, 1 steal

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