"Buckets and Backbone: The Confident Scorer Ready to Lead the Way"

Julian Estrella

@juestra12

IG: @juu.12k

6’0, 152lbs, Class of 2026

Paterson Charter School for Science and Technology, NJ

Julian is a confident, high-energy guard who thrives on scoring and setting the tone for his team. He’s got a smooth touch from deep and isn’t afraid to take the big shot when the moment calls for it. More than just a shooter, Julian brings intensity on both ends, crashing the boards, hounding defenders, and playing with a fire that lifts those around him. His game is built on effort, focus, and grit, and that makes him the kind of guard coaches can trust in tight games. Now stepping into a leadership role, Julian is ready to be the voice, the example, and the spark his team needs every time they step on the court.

As a first-year varsity player, Julian averaged 11 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals per game, helping guide his team to a state sectional title. He adjusted quickly to the varsity level by sticking to the best advice he received: “Play your game.” That mindset fueled a breakout performance, including a 20-point game against prep school powerhouse St. Mary’s, proving that he can produce under pressure. Julian’s biggest improvement came in his defensive effort, an area he continues to focus on. Offensively, he’s working on becoming more decisive, knowing when to hunt his shot and when to create for others.

This summer, he continued his development playing for the Jersey Aces on the AAU circuit, setting clear goals to trust himself and improve defensively. With each tournament, he showed growth in both areas. Now, as captain of a reloaded roster, Julian understands the responsibility ahead. His mission is to be a role model for the younger players while leading by example. His leadership is rooted in love for the game, and he’s proud to serve as both a player and a mentor for those stepping into varsity competition for the first time.

What fires Julian up most is the combination of a big bucket followed by a defensive stop. the type of plays that shift momentum and inspire energy throughout the team. When facing adversity, he stays focused, ignoring the noise and centering himself on the moment. That poise and maturity make him a steady presence even when the pressure rises. Basketball isn’t just a passion, it’s a part of his everyday life. If he’s not in a gym, he’s at a park working on his game. It’s a lifestyle for Julian, not just a season.

I assess that Julian brings consistent scoring, active defense, and leadership qualities that will benefit any program. His discipline, self-awareness, and commitment to improvement make him a valuable piece on and off the court. With continued growth in decision-making and on-ball defense, his impact will only grow stronger.

Expect Julian to take a major step this season. His work ethic, composure, and love for the game are all indicators of a player on the rise. As he embraces his role as a leader and continues to refine his all-around game, Julian is poised to be more than just a standout, he’s ppised to be a cornerstone. Stay tuned.