What to Watch at Phenom Team Camp
This upcoming weekend, Phenom Hoops will travel down to Rock Hill, South Carolina, to host our annual June Team Camp. The event always features a slew of the most talented teams and individuals within the Carolinas, and this year’s will be no different. Leading up to the event, we will take a closer look at players and subplots to monitor. Clearly, one of the top programs in North Carolina, there should be a lot of intrigue surrounding New Hanover and its new-look roster. Let’s take a closer look….
Graduating Rodmik Allen, Zeus Batts, Nolan Billings, and CJ Kornegay certainly hurts the Wildcats. The complementary trio each brought something valuable to the table. Allen completely controlled the tempo while setting the tone as a scorer, playmaker, and defender at the point of attack. It’ll be incredibly difficult to replace his presence. Batts provided a meaningful offensive punch with his blend of scoring and creation skills. The interior duo of Billings and Kornegay is arguably more impactful than their respective stats imply. Billings is a reliable finisher, rebounder, and defender who plays hard and willingly does the dirty work. Kornegay is a scrappy utility piece who finds production through his ability to play hard and fill in the gaps on both ends of the floor.
That being said, this roster is prepared for the transition. Jazir Wright-McGhee made a lasting impression with his play throughout the spring season. His IQ, toughness, and leadership by example should allow him to slide seamlessly into his new role as the main creator. Wright-McGhee is physical, unselfish, and plays with a chip on his shoulder. Kellum Brown is the most productive returner on the roster and has the versatile game to carve out a role alongside any collection of teammates. Players like Nyzion Ballard, Quinsier Waddell, and Kam Witherspoon should each take massive steps forward.