Ricky improves from #9 to #5 in the new-look Top 10. I have been up and down on Hood over the past year, but getting to see him with Carolina Premier in July answered a lot of the questions that I had. There is no doubting the physical gifts that he has, so if he continues to bring his defensive motor and offensive feel, he could easily end up as one of the most productive players in his class and wind up at a Division One program in two years.

Leading off the UAA Session 3 16U eye-catchers from the Carolinas is Ricky Hood III Ricky Hood III 6'5" | SF/CG Greer | 2028 State SC . Ricky looked terrific in his debut with Carolina Premier , proving to be an impactful addition in Atlanta. Hood tallied 15 points and 10 rebounds against Middlesex Magic, using his strong frame and elite athleticism to make plays on both ends of the floor. On defense, he had a highlight-reel block above the rim and was the team’s most active rebounder, while on offense, he knocked down 4 mid-range shots and a catch-and-shoot three, along with having a solid dose of ball-handling responsibility. If this is the type of effectiveness Ricky can have on a consistent basis, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the college coaches come knocking for one of the top 2028s in South Carolina.

On the other side of night one’s final game was Ricky Hood III Ricky Hood III 6'5" | SF/CG Greer | 2028 State SC of B & G United (Greer). Ricky is still coming into his own as a prospect, but the physical gifts are hard to miss. Hood III is a high-flying athlete who plays off two feet, finishes above the rim, and excels in transition. Part of the transition success comes from his defensive ability, resulting in 3 steals on Tuesday Night.