Sliding into the DM's : Devin Masone's Rundown from The Bob Gibbons
SUWANEE, GA - Devin Masone has been in the game for a while. Dating back almost 15 years ago he has been a go-to-guy for the North Carolina basketball media world. He is a master at his craft and besides doing all of our video production, he has an eye for talent. Let's take a look at who Devin thought were some of the top performers from North Carolina at our prestigious Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions.
Brandon Callahan (6'4 Combo Guard Class of 2024) : One that I have had my eyes on since his rising freshman year. Callahan has size for his position. A player who plays under- control and understands the game. Known for his scoring abilities over the years, he really has found himself playing with Team Curry. Callahan knows how to create space and beat you to your spots. What I was really impressed with this weekend was his on ball defense as well as his passing ability. Playing with Team Curry this summer, I really have been able to see Callahan blossom into a pass first guard who knows how to find his teammates. Just when you think he is going to pass, you are able to witness his beautiful float/ mid range game that is truly missing in today's game.
Zion Walker (6'2 Point Guard Class of 2024): Walker is one of those players you love to watch. He consistently gets to the basket at will. A player that with his body frame is not afraid of absorbing contact. One of the more consistent players on both ends of the floor this weekend. Walker was an offensive players nightmare with his pressure on the ball. He lead a very well balanced Team Curry team in assists for the weekend, but also getting it done in variety of ways on offense. Just a playmaker with the ball in his hands.
Parker Hodgson (6'2 Point Guard Class of 2023): Continues to shine in every event that I have seen him so far this travel season. A true offensive threat, showcasing his full skill set. Known for his shooting capabilities (you don't want him to get hot from outside). He is that player that you want to have the ball in his hands. A very high IQ basketball player that just makes the right plays. He is comfortable with creating for himself and others. Has added the mid-range to his game, now more comfortable with absorbing the contact on the drive.
Jaden Rice (5'5 Point Guard Class of 2023): Such a tough guard, he may not be the biggest player on the floor but he sure does have heart. Rice provided amazing poise and control this weekend, shooting extremely well from behind the arc. Always willing to take on the responsibility of locking down the other teams top guard. One of the best defenders in this weekends event. All his opponents struggled to get the ball across when being guarded all 94ft and his number of steals for the weekend attest to it. If there is a program out there looking for a great defender he definitely fits that role.
Isaiah Otyaluk ( 6'7 Forward Class of 2024): If there was any player this weekend that had a coming out party it was Otyaluk. A lengthy prospect with range on his shot. Otyaluk put on a shooting clinic verse Atlanta Allstars and nearly had a comeback win due to his efforts alone. A solid defender who utilizes his length to disrupt his opponents. He has a lot of upside to his game and is improving with every game he is playing (especially playing up for his No Guts No Glory team).
Dakota Gordon ( 6'2 Shooting Guard Class of 2023): No better words to describe Gordan than a "Lethal Shooter", he just gets it done on the offensive end. Gordon had multiple games of 4 or more made 3 pointers. Gordon has such a quick release and can score both off the catch and the bounce which makes him such a threat. He makes the right reads and is a very poised player that does not get rattled easily.
Kamran Prince (6'2 Combo Guard Class of 2024): One of those athletes that you just love to watch. Prince gives his all on every possession that he is on the floor. Known for his athleticism, Prince absolutely could not miss from all levels in his marquee matchup vs Team Loaded NC. The best thing about Prince is his abilities to affect the game without the ball in his hands. He is a walking highlight ready to be on anyones next mixtape. His explosiveness is insane on both ends of the floor.
