Bruton’s Scouting Notebook: Rock City Classic (Class of ’25 & ’26)
Rocky Mount, NC – The Rock City Classic brought out some high level talent. From start to finish, the gym stayed loud and the energy stayed high. Here are a few names that stood out in the highest division.
Cohen Hyatt | 6’2″ G | Strictly Ballers NXT Pro | Class of 2026
Hyatt is an athletic guard who impressed with his smooth jumper and confident release. He thrives in catch-and-shoot situations but also showed he can get into his shot off the dribble. Uses his length and bounce to stay active defensively and finishes well in transition. If the motor stays consistent, he’s a real problem on both ends.
Bryson Simpkins | 6’3″ G | Tru Elite | Class of 2026
Simpkins is a strong-bodied guard who plays like a hybrid SG/SF. He embraced physicality on both ends of the floor and brought toughness to every matchup. Reliable jumper, plus the ability to create mismatches by overpowering smaller guards. Quiet assassin type—just produces.
Trevor Manhertz | 6’7″ SG | Garner Road National | Class of 2026
Manhertz is a lefty wing that looks primed to break out on the D1 radar. Had a major growth spurt and is now a matchup nightmare with guard skills at a forward’s height. He knocked down jumpers, handled the ball in space, defended 1–4, and created consistently. Skilled, fluid, and just scratching the surface of his potential.
Tyson Thompson | 6’10” PF | Garner Road 3SSB | Class of 2026
Thompson is a true post with size and strength. He owns his space on the block and rebounds with authority. Showed soft hands, solid footwork, and a physical edge. Definitely has the tools to anchor a defense and finish plays around the rim at the next level.
BJ Solomon | 6’5″ SG | Strictly Ballers NXT Pro | Class of 2025 (Unsigned Senior)
Solomon is a big, athletic guard who brings energy and effort. He has wing versatility and can defend multiple spots, but what stood out was his ability to explode in transition and get downhill. Still unsigned, but has the tools to help a college program from day one.
Bryant Dixon | 6’3″ SG | Team Trezz | Class of 2026
Dixon had a breakout showing with his scoring. Crafty off the dribble, efficient from deep, and didn’t force the issue. He made big shots when his team needed them and consistently beat his man with quick change-of-direction moves. Pure bucket.
Jayden Little | 6’2″ SG | Tru Elite | Class of 2025 (Unsigned Senior)
Little is a true three-level scorer who played with confidence. Whether off the catch or the bounce, he stayed aggressive and showed an advanced scoring package. Finished well through contact and had a few heat-check moments that showed his rhythm and confidence. Could be a late steal for a program looking for points.
KC Peter | 6’3″ SG | WBA Wolves | Class of 2025 (Unsigned Senior)
Peter brings a college-ready frame and an old-school game. He’s strong, efficient, and lethal from mid-range, especially with his signature spin into a pull-up. Played with poise, didn’t rush anything, and always looked under control. His physicality stood out on both ends.
Nyzion Ballard | 6’7″ PF | Garner Road National | Class of 2026
Ballard was a tone-setter in the paint. He blocked everything, ran the floor hard, and dunked everything with two hands. Showed excellent timing as a help defender and made teams think twice about attacking the rim. Raw but very productive.
Simon Quinn | 6’5″ SG | Team Rampage | Class of 2026
Quinn is a confident, polished scorer with smooth mechanics. Played at a great pace and never looked rattled, even in tight games. Could handle pressure, create off the dribble, and always found a way to impact the game. One of the more mature guards in the gym.
Brandon Hyman | 6’8″ PF | Strictly Ballers NXT Pro | Class of 2025 (Unsigned Senior)
Hyman is a vocal leader and physical presence inside. He communicates nonstop and brings a level of toughness that sets the tone. While his stats won’t always jump off the page, his presence was undeniable. Every team needs a guy like him.
