This weekend, Phenom Hoops will be hosting events in three different locations. Between the Freedom 828 Showcase, Ish Smith Showcase, and Tourney Town Showcase, there’s a ton of quality hoops throughout North Carolina. Now with the season fully underway, folks have a clearer understanding surrounding the “who’s who” in the high school scene. Each event brings its own set of storylines, matchups, and notable prospects on display. Let’s take a closer look at each, moving onto the Ish Smith Showcase…
Arguably one of the top boys’ games on display, Hickory Ridge will battle against Concord in a matchup between two talented local programs. The Rsgin’ Bulls have been consistently successful under Coach Broome, and this has the chance to be their best season yet. Meanwhile, Concord is a scrappy group with a variety of productive veteran pieces who can compete with any opponent on a given night.
For Hickory Ridge, they’ve continued to excel behind the leadership of Travien Williams. He completely controls the action as the main creator and overall source of offense. Williams is a strong, intelligent guard with the size, strength, and penetration sense to consistently dominate opponents. He’s a crafty ball-handler and quality passer who can score from all levels and get wherever he wants off the bounce. This team will go as far as he takes them. However, Braylen Hill continues to shine as a focal point and nightly x-factor for this group. He’s a natural utility piece whose motor, toughness, and well-rounded skillset allow him to produce in various types of roles. While those two were expected to be leaders, it’s been a major breakout season for Amari Winters. He’s visibly stepped up to assert himself as a primary scorer and overall difference-maker. Add in returning contributors like Rodney Gidney and Tyson Durant, and they remain one of the better teams in the state.
On the other side, it’s been a big year for guys like Kyzen Coleman and Jayden Beyan. The senior duo has combined for the majority of the Spiders’ scoring output while carrying heavy loads as rebounders, playmakers, and defensive pieces. Jabari Byrd finds production through his ability to fill in the gaps on both ends of the floor. Taheer Jackson also offers a nice blend of scoring and playmaking. Beyond their main core grouping, guys like Deonte Hester, Tyrel Weatherspoon, and Lawson Childress are capable of contributing on a nightly basis.