"Big Man with a Bag: Skill, Size, and a Smooth Trigger"

Cayden Larson

@CaydLarson

IG: @caylars3

6’8”, 215lbs, Class of 2027

Prairie HS, IA

Iowa Prep | Kingdom Hoops

Cayden is a versatile two-way force with the skill set of a modern-day stretch forward and the physicality of an old-school post. He’s a natural four who dominates with powerful footwork, elite timing, and a smooth shooting touch, even well beyond the arc. He brings the pain down low and the rain from deep, forcing defenders into a lose-lose situation. Cayden’s bag is deep: he can score with skilled post moves, make long-range shots, and make smart reads as a facilitator. And defensively, he’s a problem. At 6’8 with mobility, length, and instincts, he guards every position on the court and alters shots with fierce rim protection. His high motor, IQ, and willingness to battle make him a nightmare matchup on both ends.

This past season, Cayden played varsity minutes for the #8-ranked team in Iowa’s Class 4A and made the most of every second. Despite limited floor time (15 minutes per game), he still averaged 7 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 block per game, impacting games with energy and efficiency. When an injury opened the door late in the year, he exploded for 16 points and earned Player of the Game honors in a pivotal win that clinched the division. That breakout moment wasn’t just a flash, it was a preview of what’s coming. His biggest improvements have been in defensive quickness and guarding on the perimeter, and this offseason, he’s attacking strength, ball-handling, inside finishing, and his already dangerous outside shot. Cayden holds a 3.7 GPA and has a focused, grind-first mindset with college hoops in his sights.

He’s currently competing for both Iowa Prep and Kingdom Hoops on the AAU scene. His Iowa Prep squad has been steamrolling through tough competition, and Cayden continues to earn praise for his scoring balance, basketball IQ, and elite versatility. With Kingdom Hoops, he’s chasing a spot at the Nike Peach Jam while also eyeing the Puma NXTPRO Finals in Orlando. Whether he’s spacing the floor with his deep range or making plays in the post, Cayden’s presence is felt in every matchup. He’s focused on elevating his offensive production, making winning plays, and catching the attention of college programs who value skill, size, and toughness.

Cayden plays with a fire that’s fueled by competition, he thrives in physical, intense matchups and loves going head-to-head with big-name players. When facing adversity, he trusts his work ethic and perspective, choosing discipline over excuses. His favorite coaching advice is, “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do” and “The way you do anything is the way you do everything.” This is how he trains and competes. Basketball is more than a game for Cayden. It’s a full-time commitment. His passion drives him to live in the gym, train with purpose, and pursue the dream of playing college basketball. Off the court, he enjoys time with family and friends, fishing, traveling, and watching movies. but make no mistake, this kid eats, sleeps, and breathes the game.

I assess that Cayden’s size, shooting range, and two-way versatility make him a dream fit for today’s game. He can space the floor, defend multiple positions, and impact either side of the court. His ability to score inside and out, combined with his toughness and IQ, gives him all the tools to contribute early at the next level.

Expect Cayden’s role and recruitment to explode in the coming year. With increased minutes and confidence, he’s poised to become a dominant focal point for Prairie and a standout on the AAU circuit. His ceiling is sky-high, his motor is nonstop, and his love for the game is undeniable, he’s just scratching the surface of the potential he possesses. Stay tuned for a breakout season ahead and a future star in the making right before our eyes.