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 Wonderful Ngwenah of Harding University and Defenders Elite.
There is no clear-cut path to make it into college basketball, but persistence and determination have been two factors that clearly play a role for some. That could be the case for Ngwenah, who is eyeing his possible path to the next level. He’s a high-motor forward prospect that doesn’t mind doing the dirty work or making hustle plays on both sides of the ball. Ngwenah utilizes his length very well around the basket to alter shots, collect rebounds, and secure loose balls. He runs the floor hard in transition and can effectively finish or make the extra pass to an open teammate.
We’ve seen Ngwenah in multiple different settings, including at our Carolina High School Showcase Camp, where we stated: “Finishing up, we look at a player that has a lot of appealing attributes, but is arguably just beginning to harness his long-term abilities, Wonderful Ngwenah. He’s a big, strong, fairly athletic post prospect that plays hard and aggressive on both ends of the floor. Ngwenah is an excellent two-way rebounder and has the ability to grab and push decently well in transition. He showed some skills, but few opponents will be able to contain hiim once his skillset catches up to his physicality. Next in his development process is working on his ability to shoot off the dribble, as it would make him an absolute matchup problem on offense. Coach Washington on Ngwenah: “Wonderful has all the tools and ability. He’s very long and athletic. I would like to see him work more on defense but has the potential to be a key piece at the next level.” Ngwenah absolutely possesses all the physical tools necessary to be an impact player at the next level, so it’ll be interesting to see what programs get involved.”
Currently, Ngwenah has some action going on within his recruitment, as most would expect with a long, athletic, fairly skilled forward prospect. There’s a lot to like about his development and potential upside going forward. Ngwenah understands how to make an impact without requiring the ball in his hands, which should increase his appeal for college coaches. He seems to get better with each viewing and could legitimately be an asset for a variety of programs at the next level, especially if he continues to work.