Though it should go without saying, Team Hope has consistently shined among the top independent travel ball programs over these last few years. Each year, they bring in a slew of talented prospects and compete with basically any opponents across the state. This year’s squad is no different. While talented, it’s also worth noting that this team has suffered through as much injury and roster turnover as any squad in North Carolina. Between guys like Eli Clark, Michael Wilson, and DJ Boyce being sidelined, three of their top four players were unavailable for the first July Live period. That being said, Team Hope Laney still had plenty of pieces to make a lasting impression at our Summer Havoc. Let’s take a closer look at some of their main contributors…
6’8 ’23 Pat Tivnan
Clearly the leader of this group whether healthy or not, Tivnan really understands how to set the tone and burden a heavy load for this group. He’s a long, wiry, inside-out forward/post prospect with touch, mobility, and perimeter shooting. Tivnan displays a high motor and can outwork opponents for rebounds or extra opportunities. He’s a steady two-way rebounder, reliable finisher, and quality passer from the post. Tivnan utilizes his length well defensively and alters shots at a nice rate. Despite his constant production, he doesn’t necessarily need to dominate the ball in order to make a lasting impact.
6’3 ’23 Christian Monroe
Given his fairly well-rounded identity, Monroe is able to succeed in a variety of different roles. He handles the ball, sets up others, and understands how to effectively apply scoring pressure within the flow of the action. Monroe is patient and makes smart, unselfish decisions with the ball in his hands. He displays the ability to operate with or without the ball in his hands. Monroe is also a capable defender and rebounder, especially for his size/position, and knows how to fill in the gaps properly for this group.
6’3 ’23 Brayden Blue
Similar to the entry above, Blue typically works as a glue-guy for this group. He’s a long, wiry, adaptable wing prospect who naturally finds success through playing hard, doing the dirty work, and making plays within the confines of the team structure. Blue is a useful shooter, playmaker, and defender who battles for rebounds and second-chance opportunities. He’s able to initiate the offense and create for the team or make his presence felt alongside another guard. Blue should have various college coaches involved.
6’2 ’23 Cooper Marcum
Though somewhat unassuming at first glance, Marcum can really play. Although he possesses a stocky, football-like frame, he’s a very polished, well-rounded guard. Marcum consistently found ways to affect all facets of the game, and was able to effortlessly alter his approach based on team need. He scored from all levels, dictated the pace of play, and outworked opponents on both ends of the floor. Marcum utilizes his body well to absorb contact as a finisher and rebounder, and makes great decisions with the ball in his hands. Since their injuries as a team, Marcum has clearly stepped up and proven himself as a prospect worthy of attention.
6’5 ’23 Kaleb Parker
While his game isn’t necessarily flashy or overly exciting, Parker has arguably progressed as much as anyone on the roster throughout the last calendar year. He’s a long, wiry, high-motor forward/post prospect who understands how to prioritize finishing, rebounding, and altering shots defensively. Parker plays hard, runs the floor in transition, and looks to capitalize whenever necessary. He does a great job of playing within himself and the team structure. Parker’s body and overall feel have visibly improved over the recent months.