"Above the Rim with Range and Bite"

Hayden Brannan

Twitter and IG: @haydenbrannan_

6’7, 185lbs, Class of 2026

Vandegrift HS, TX

Hayden is a long, athletic forward that plays above the rim and brings force every time he’s around the basket. He runs the floor hard, finishes strong, and has no problem rising up to hammer it home with a rim-rocking throwdown when space opens up. He’s just as dangerous stepping out and raining the catch-and-shoot three, which makes him tough to deal with when defenses have to pick their poison. Add in his ability to attack off the bounce and score in one-on-one situations, and you’re looking at a matchup problem that keeps defenders guessing all night.

Defensively, Hayden brings pure aggression. He challenges shots, protects the paint, and turns stops into momentum plays. His timing and instincts around the rim fierce, and he plays with confidence on that end, knowing he can be a dream eraser and swing games with his shot blocking. He’s active, physical, and not afraid to mix it up, which sets the tone for the rest of the group.

After averaging 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 block per game last year, Hayden has elevated his game this season with 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. The numbers reflect more responsibility, more consistency, and more impact. He’s scoring in more ways, owning his area, and making his presence felt every game.

One of the biggest differences has been his role as a leader. As a senior and a captain, Hayden has embraced running the team, controlling the flow, and setting the standard. That leadership shows up in how he competes, how he stays composed, and how he delivers in clutch moments. His ability to create offense off the dribble has also grown, giving him another gear when the game tightens up. He’s still hungry to get stronger, improve his handles, and guard better on the perimeter, knowing there’s more to unlock.

His goals are to win a district title, chase district MVP, make a run at a state championship, and earn college offers along the way. Big games are where Hayden comes alive. Matchups against strong teams and high-level players bring out his best, and that edge shows in how aggressive and locked in he becomes. When facing adversity and shots don’t fall, he stays confident, controls what he can, and keeps coming, trusting the work and trusting his game.

I assess that Hayden brings size, athleticism, and versatility that can change a college frontcourt. His ability to score at the rim, stretch the floor, and protect it defensively gives him real value on both ends. He impacts the game without needing plays drawn up for him and raises the ceiling of the players around him.

Hayden continues to evolve into a dependable, physical forward who embraces big moments and responsibility. Expect continued production, stronger leadership, and a player who thrives when the competition ramps up. His combination of length, skill, and edge points to a prospect with real potential at the next level. Stay tuned.