At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned prospects in the senior class. Last season, over one hundred players from North Carolina went on to play at the Division I, II, III, or NAIA levels (with several others exploring the JUCO path). That number looks likely to continue increasing with the current senior class. Typically, we try to highlight guys who are under-recruited by college coaches or overlooked by the masses. This edition will feature Joel Deigna of Oak Ridge Military Academy.
We’ve watched Deigna countless times over the recent years, previously stating, “He’s a strong, athletic wing prospect who plays with incredible energy on both ends of the floor. Deigna showed the ability to score from all levels, both as a creator and off-ball threat. He attacks the basket with force and finishes above the rim or through contact, yet also converts jumpers at a reliable rate from the perimeter. Defensively, Deigna makes life difficult for opponents. His strength, energy, and physicality allow him to shut down opponents with relative ease. Deigna secures rebounds extremely well for his size/position. Next in his development process is working on the use of his off-hand, as it would make him a more reliable creator. Coach Walker on Deigna: “Joel is the hardest worker on the team by far. His work ethic will separate him from a lot of top talent. He has a very high ceiling with enormous amounts of potential.” Deigna proved to be an asset at camp and should remain a focal point for Oak Ridge Military entering his upcoming senior season.”
Since then, Deigna has only continued to solidify himself as a college-worthy prospect. He’s a strong, physically overwhelming wing with an excellent blend of motor, athleticism, and toughness. At 6-foot-5 with long arms and an aggressive approach to the game, Deigna is naturally imposing on both ends of the floor. He attacks the basket and finishes above the rim or through contact, but can also knock down shots at a respectable rate from midrange or beyond the arc. Deigna is an excellent rebounder for his size/position and frequently outworks bigger opponents for extra possessions. He’s capable of defending various types of opponents and doesn’t seem deterred by any size deficit, as his motor typically overrides any size disadvantage. Deigna would be an asset for a variety of programs.