This upcoming weekend, Phenom Hoops will travel to the Convention Center in the heart of downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, for an event absolutely jam-packed with talent. The Live periods always represent the potential for so many of these young prospects to seize life-altering opportunities. Everyone wants to be seen by college coaches and eventually play at the next level. Well, this is the time for players to perform and separate themselves from their peers. Although we will be in multiple locations (Rock Hill and Raleigh), both sites will host a ton of college coaches with a variety from all levels. We will highlight some of the 17U teams for coaches to monitor, looking at Save Sports Black…
After watching these players blossom throughout the recent years, it’s easy to recognize their chemistry and desire to compete with anyone. Coach Dorsette always seems to find hidden talent within the greater Durham area, and this squad certainly aligns with that sentiment. So much of this team starts with the guard duo of Josh and Josiah Dorsette. Although Josh committed to Dean College earlier this spring, he’s still shown a steady presence from the point guard position. He takes care of the ball, sets up others, knocks down three-pointers, and finishes well for his size. Josh also defends with consistent energy and toughness. Meanwhile, Josiah continues to showcase steady growth within his overall progression. He displays a useful blend of quickness, creation instincts, and scoring polish. Josiah is also capable of forcing turnovers and pushing the break in transition.
Guys like Finn Collini and Darryn Johnson both stand out as extremely consistent producers for this squad. Collini is an elite marksman who consistently knocks down jumpers at a high clip from beyond the arc. In addition to possessing great positional size, he’s very comfortable coming off movement and shows the ability to attack closeouts as needed. Collini is a willing passer but has the confidence and shot-making ability to assert himself at a healthy rate. Meanwhile, Johnson always seems to stand out as an impactful utility piece who can do a little bit of everything. He mixes it up as a scorer from all levels, operates as a secondary playmaker, and simply positions himself to make his presence felt. Johnson rebounds his position, defends with energy, and fills in the gaps wherever possible. Regardless of role, he finds production.
Rounding out this group, Niley Richardson, Stew Edwards, and Robbie McDonald should each appeal to college coaches. Richardson has an intriguing blend of size and physical tools, and Edwards and McDonald look to expand their respective offer sheets as unsigned seniors. Expect this group to turn a lot of heads this weekend.