At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, hundreds of 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 Kendrell Brooks of The Burlington School.
We’ve seen Brooks in various different settings, including at our most recent open gym trip to The Burlington School, where we stated, “Though he might not be as well-known as some others on the roster, Kendrell Brooks had no issue finding opportunities during yesterday’s practice. He’s a wiry guard prospect with an understanding of how to provide energy for this squad. Brooks isn’t necessarily tasked with scoring, but can knock down shots or make solid penetration moves amidst defensive pressure. He should be able to provide meaningful minutes throughout the upcoming season.”
Since then, Brooks has visibly improved and boosted his stock as a next-level prospect. With Wildcats Elite, he’s shown the ability to operate as a primary ball-handler and decision-maker with the ball in his hands. Brooks is a quality athlete and reliable shooting threat who can initiate the offense or operate as a useful off-ball piece. He displays toughness defensively and an active motor on either end of the floor. Brooks is arguably at his best in the open floor, but appears more than comfortable at finding opportunities in the half-court. He’s really shined during the spring with Wildcats Elite, so folks should expect him to continue to trend in a positive direction over the coming months.