At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, over one hundred players from North Carolina went on to play at the Division I, II, III or NAIA levels, and that number looks likely to continue increasing with the current senior class. Typically, we take a closer look at guys who are overlooked and underrated, and today’s edition will highlight Jordan Hunter of Mount Tabor.
It’s happened countless times, where we see a player with an obvious skill at the high school level and it simply doesn’t translate to the college game. However, Hunter should be optimistic about his potential to play at the next level, given what he does possess. Toughness, high motor, and leadership by example are all things that Hunter does exceptionally well. He’s a pretty low-maintenance player that can initiate offense or find scoring chances without the ball in his hands, as an off-ball cutter. Hunter is a quality defender that forces turnovers at an impressive rate despite not possessing elite size or strength, typically utilizing his length and athleticism to cause problems for opposing guards. He’s a nice athlete, makes smart decisions with the ball in his hands, and will outwork his assignment in every possible way.
We’ve seen Hunter numerous times, including at one of our most recent NC Phenom 150 Camps, where we stated: “Continuing onto a player that made a lasting impression with his two-way aggressiveness, Jordan Hunter. He’s a high-motor guard prospect that knows how to hound his assignment on defense, always looking to eliminate operating space and force on-ball turnovers with his quick hands. Hunter is a quality penetrator with the ability to finish through contact or set up teammates for easy scoring opportunities. He’s also a capable ball-handler and creator but typically finds success without requiring the ball in his hands. Next in his development process is working on the use of his off-hand, as it would allow him to become a craftier finisher around the basket. Coach Hogner on Hunter: “Jordan is a great on-ball defender but needs to understand when to be less physical and aggressive. He can also continue to work on his consistency as a shooter. Jordan provided our team with a positive attitude and team-first approach throughout the day.” Hunter worked extremely hard during his time at camp and could be a useful contributor during the upcoming season at Mount Tabor.”
Hunter might not have been the leading scorer or most appealing prospect for Mount Tabor this past season, but there’s no denying the impact he made. His veteran leadership was evident in each contest they played, which is yet another reason why he could find success at the next level. There’s no telling where Hunter will end up at the end of it all, but there’s certainly a place for him within the college game.