What made the Phenom Grassroots TOC so special is that we had some of the big-named programs from around the region come and compete all on the court, bringing some intense competition to Rock Hill (SC). We were eager to see what our good friends at Upward Stars 3SSB were going to bring to the court, and they certainly left a lasting impression.
Upward Stars 3SSB 2026
Grassroots TOC Record: 4-0
The 2026 team was one that we were excited to watch and see what they could do on the court, as they were able to prove themselves in a big way, going undefeated at the event. Taking down some strong teams, the 17u team will certainly have eyes on them throughout the summer. It starts with 2027 Josh Leonard, who continues to prove that he is a Top-25 national talent and probably the best prospect in South Carolina overall. He is a force to be reckoned with and impacts the game all over, as he will be a hot target throughout. 2026 Korie Corbett showed flashes of his overall game, scoring, creating, and athleticism on the court that should garner the attention of college coaches around. Other players like 2026 Dacen Petty, 2026 BJ Brown, 2026 Lucas Wiersma, 2026 Jordan Buzzard, 2026 Dylan Twitty, 2026 Lance Barnes, and 2026 Deuce Haynes should all be on the radars for college coaches and bring a well-balanced attack.
Upward Stars 3SSB 2027
Grassroots TOC Record: 3-1
The 16u team is one that will be interesting to watch throughout the season, as they have sneaky talent but may not always get the attention they deserve. When we watched them, though, this is a team that plays hard, competes, and shares the ball really well. 2027 Colt Fowler, 2027 Jaden Johnson, 2027 Thomas Vickery, and others impressed with their balanced attack, their motor, and determination on the court as they won’t be an easy outing throughout the entire summer. I would keep a sneaky eye on this team overall, as they bring some underrated talent to watch out for this year.
Upward Stars 3SSB 2028
Grassroots TOC Record: 3-1
The 15u team was a team that certainly introduced itself to our scouts, as we got a great opportunity to check out the next wave of talent coming from the state. 2028 CJ Moore showed more of his development both inside and out, 2028 Antoine Caughman introduced himself as a player that you could see at the top of your rankings with his overall play and versatility, and other players played really well. 2028 Jermier Nelson created well offensively, 2028 JJ Gray shot the ball well, 2028 Brice Wiersma brings size and overall feel to the court, 2028 Flory Kuminga brings a physical frame and a fluid feel, and others like 2028 Zyion Jones, 2028 Noah Sanders, and 2028 Kiedis Smith will also bring true value to the court. I really liked what I saw from this team overall.