"Boards, Blocks, and Buckets: A Big Built to Produce"

Brayden Helmick

@HelmickBrayden

IG: @braydenhelmick_07

6’7, 233lbs, Class of 2026

Notre Dame HS, WV

Brayden is a strong inside presence who knows how to use his size and strength as a weapon. He is crafty around the lane, finishes through contact, and plays with a physical edge that shows up every possession. What makes his game intriguing is how much it has expanded. Once known primarily for his post game, he has added a reliable three-point shot, a fadeaway, and the confidence to put the ball on the floor and push it in transition. For a player his size, the coordination and mobility stand out, especially paired with his willingness to make the right play for teammates.

On the defensive end, Brayden brings real presence. He protects the rim with intent, blocks shots with authority, and controls the boards with a beast mode mentality. He rebounds outside of his area, delivers timely outlet passes, and can drop some sweet dimes when defenses collapse. His feel for the game continues to grow, and he understands that development is never finished, always looking for spots to fill and ways to get better.

Last season, Brayden averaged 14 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game. Through the first 7 games of this season, he is again at 14 points, while elevating his numbers to 13.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game, showing growth as a playmaker and rebounder. His biggest improvement has been physical. Dropping 50 pounds over the summer while building muscle completely changed his speed and overall movement, allowing his skill development in the post and from the perimeter to translate more smoothly into games.

The goals for this season for Brayden are to average 18 points and 16 rebounds, make a run to the state tournament, and earn his opportunity at the Division II level. Long term, he wants to step into college basketball ready to contribute right away. What fuels him most is being underestimated. That underdog mindset drives his effort, and when adversity hits, he digs deep, drawing motivation from the sacrifices his family has made to help him reach this point.

I assess that Brayden brings size, strength, rebounding, and rim protection that can impact a college program. His improved mobility and growing perimeter skill set add versatility, allowing him to influence the game beyond traditional post play.

Moving forward, Brayden’s continued development as a scorer away from the basket and as a decision maker will raise his ceiling. With his physical transformation, work ethic, and hunger to prove himself, he is evolving into a reliable interior presence who continues to add weapons to his game at the next level.