At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, dozens of players from West Virginia 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 Christian Holland of Beckley IJN.
There are numerous scenarios where a prospect checks virtually every box to be a successful Division I player, yet don’t receive the appropriate attention within their respective recruitment. This can occur for a variety of reasons, but it feels like Houston should still have more programs vying for his services. He’s a big, strong, powerful guard prospect with the ability to properly run a team or operate alongside another primary ball-handler. Houston utilizes his craftiness and quick-twitch nature to beat opponents off the dribble and consistently make plays as a penetrator. He sees the floor well, makes intelligent passes, and actively looks to get his teammates involved. Although Houston is a terrific penetrator, he also showcases the ability to apply efficient scoring pressure from all three levels while being a fantastic rebounder and all-around defender.
Houston has continually improved since our first viewing but has always possessed an appealing array of tools: “Continuing onto a player that possesses an exceptional crossroads between productivity and long-term upside, Curtis Houston. He’s a smart, strong-bodied guard prospect with a quality balance between playmaking and efficient three-level scoring. Houston can reliably operate from either backcourt position on both ends of the floor, given his size, athleticism, and on-ball defense. He’s an unselfish player and willing passer with great vision, making him extremely difficult to contain with the ball in his hands. Next in his development process is working on his ability to move without the ball, as it would allow him to apply even more pressure to opposing defenses. Coach Dempsey on Houston: “Curtis has a Division I-level skillset and body but needs to learn how to play with a consistently high-level motor. He has the ability to be a great defender and has phenomenal court vision. Curtis displayed a positive attitude and team-first mentality throughout camp.” Houston has an incredible array of tools and should start garnering the attention of Division I coaches sooner than later.”
Houston just recently put his name back on the recruiting market and should have a lot of different options. Although he may need to explore JUCO options, there’s little to no reason for Houston to not start receiving a strong amount of attention from Division I programs. He’s a smart, heady player that understands how to lead by example and exemplify a killer instinct on both ends of the floor. Only time will tell, but Houston should become a priority for college coaches sooner than later.