This upcoming weekend, Phenom Hoops will return to the Convention Center in Raleigh, North Carolina for another massive Live period event. After having two separate venues (Raleigh and Rock Hill) earlier this spring, now everyone will compete under one roof. Not only does this make for a heightened experience with college coaches, but it also makes the pool of teams that much stronger. The four-day event will feature a ton of noteworthy teams and countless college-level prospects. Among those teams is Dub Salem—a squad has largely dominated at our events throughout the spring season. Let’s take a closer look at their pieces…
Although this team has undergone some roster changes over the last month, there’s an obvious slew of talent for college coaches to pursue. The trio of Donyeh Baird, Jacob Mills, and Owen Hancock will occupy most of the backcourt minutes. Baird is a long, wiry lead guard who excels at getting downhill and applying pressure as a penetrating threat. He’s a quality athlete with the size, length, and strength to cause problems for opponents on both ends of the floor. Although Baird can finish, knock down jumpers, and set up others, he also provides value as an overall defender and rebounder. He anticipates well to force turnovers, and knows how to rebound and push the break in transition. Meanwhile, Mills and Hancock combine to make the most lethal three-point shooting pairing on any team in North Carolina. Though Mills is slightly bigger, both guys are phenomenal at playing to their strengths. They space the floor at an extremely high level, as neither can be left alone or they’ll consistently make defenses pay. Between deep range, smooth mechanics, and the ability to find space without the ball, they cause constant problems for opponents. They each defend with energy and toughness, and show a willingness to make hustle plays whenever possible.
It’s easy to see the value Will Hall and Drew Neve bring to this group. Hall is long, wiry, and possesses an intriguing skillset for his size/position. He can space the floor, finish above the rim, and make plays off the bounce as needed. Hall utilizes his length and bouncy nature to block shots at a solid rate, but can also force turnovers through his anticipation. He rebounds his position well. Meanwhile, Neve is a tough, physical forward who consistently impacts the game through his activity and low-maintenance approach. He’s a capable inside-out threat offensively, but doesn’t need a ton of touches to make an impact. Neve is a strong rebounder and aggressive defender who reliably fills in the gaps as an offensive cog.
Rounding out this roster, Evan Wilson, Noah Speller, and Seth Reynolds are each vital to the success of this squad. Wilson provides meaningful minutes from the guard position. He’s one of the youngest players on the team but knows how to make plays within his role on both ends of the floor. Speller possesses a nice blend of size and skill, and could be a viable target for college coaches in search of unsigned seniors. Lastly, Reynolds is a skilled forward with a sturdy frame and steady presence on both ends of the floor. He finishes with touch, rebounds with energy, and defends bigger opponents very well. Reynolds does a great job of finding production through his general effort and involvement.