"Crafting His Way Up: Building Game, Gaining Ground"

Amari Phillips

@Amari2phillips

IG: @d_1amari

6'1", 145lbs, Class of 2025

Verona Area HiS, WI

Amari is a versatile guard who plays with poise, vision, and a steady rhythm. His game is built around finding his spots and helping others find theirs. He’s a smooth operator in the midrange, knocks down the three at a high clip, and plays with great awareness on both ends of the floor. Amari thrives as a connector, getting teammates involved, reading the defense, and making sound decisions under pressure. Defensively, he takes pride in staying in front of his man and rebounding with intensity. He’s not the loudest on the floor, but his consistency speaks volumes. What makes Amari stand out is how coachable and detail-oriented he is. He doesn’t force things. He plays with intent, confidence, and a strong feel for the game.

This past high school season, he averaged 7 points per game, shot 75% from the line, 50% from the field, and added 1.7 rebounds and 3 assists per game. His biggest improvement came on the defensive side, an area he focused on heavily, and it showed in his ability to contest shots and create pressure. That playoff loss still sits with him, but instead of dragging him down, it sparked a deeper drive. He’s using it as fuel to work harder and grow as a leader. This offseason, Amari is locked in on getting stronger physically while also expanding his game off the dribble and continuing to elevate his shooting. He knows creating more space and becoming more dynamic with the ball in his hands will open the door to bigger opportunities.

Amari is playing with Wisconsin Dynasty this AAU season, with his eyes on picking up offers and finding the right college home. He’s especially looking forward to the Kansas Live Period on July 10th, one of the summer’s biggest stages. His goals are to uplift his teammates, get better every day, and let his work do the talking. He thrives off seeing his teammates succeed, and the energy of a game where everyone is clicking fuels him like nothing else. When facing adversity, he stays calm, blocks out the noise, and keeps pushing forward, quitting was never part of his mindset.

Off the court, Amari is just as grounded. He’s a student before an athlete, proud of the discipline he brings to both roles. He enjoys fishing, spending time with family, and making memories with the people who support him most. Basketball is his passion, but his character is what gives him staying power.

Amari’s balance of selflessness and skill makes him an asset to any team. He processes the game quickly, makes smart reads, and delivers with purpose. His defensive improvement and shooting touch give him versatility, and with continued strength development, he’ll be able to compete physically at the next level. Coaches looking for a glue guy who values both the game and the grind will love what Amari brings.

Amari is on the rise. He’s putting in the time, focused on development, and building the kind of all-around game that translates well to fill his role as a strong glue guy on the next level. As his body matures and his confidence grows, expect him to emerge as a steady, reliable presence who plays winning basketball.