Few players in New York City are as underappreciated as Christ the King's Rob Hampton. A 6-foot-3, 175-pound senior swingman with a blue collar streak, Hampton is one of those unsung glue guys whose value isn't always captured by the score sheet.
On a team with myriad offensive weapons and news-grabbers, Hampton is a meat-and-potatoes type who gets it done in the trenches with a minimum of flash. He's a tough-minded player who'll go to the glass, defend, and scrap.
Hampton's handiwork has not gone completely unnoticed. According to Rob, Stony Brook, Fairfield, and Central Connecticut have expressed interest, with Stony Brook and Fairfield extending scholarship offers. Hampton was supposed to make a visit to Stony Brook this week. Rob is looking to use his basketball acumen to further his education.
"I just need to go somewhere for the education," said Hampton.
Hampton logged 10 points and 5 rebounds in Christ the King's 52-44 win over St. Dominic's at the NYHoops.com Tip-Off Classic at Baruch College on Sunday.
Hampton was a reserve for Coach Bob Oliva last year, but slides into the starting line-up this year at the power forward spot on a size-deprived team. He's a committed rebounder who can defend the post, but can also step out and play on the wing. Hampton knocked down a three and collected some interior buckets in the win over St. Dom's on Sunday.
Rob was a standout for Team Odom this past summer, coached by CK assistant Artie Cox.
Hampton also did work on the gridiron this fall, earning all-league honors as a wide receiver.