"Built Different: The Relentless Rim Attacker Making Noise in Tennessee"

Kale Martin

@kalemartin23

IG: @kalemartin23

6ft, 165lbs, Class of 2028

Siegel HS, TN

Kale is a versatile, high-energy guard who thrives when the lights are on and the stakes are high. Built with a fierce mentality and an explosive first step, he’s added bounce to his game and now brings legit throw-down ability to an already dangerous offensive package. He’s a relentless rim attacker who lives in the paint, whether finishing through contact or finding open teammates with dazzling dimes. Kale plays with purpose and grit, capable of sliding into any role his team needs. From running the offense to bodying up in the post, he adapts and delivers. His confidence has grown sky-high, and his skill set continues to evolve, making him one of the most slept-on but dangerous young prospects in Tennessee’s 2028 class.

Over the course of the school season, Kale averaged 5 points, 3 assists, and 2 rebounds per game while showing flashes of what was to come. His shooting and confidence with the ball took a huge leap, and he’s now fully trusted with big moments. In the regional tournament, Kale came alive, delivering two monster games that helped push Siegel to a sub-state appearance. He’s focused this offseason on becoming a more consistent shooter from deep, increasing his agility with the ball, and conditioning himself to never run out of gas. What separates him is the way he responds when things don’t go his way; he turns mistakes into motivation, plays harder on defense, and focuses on making the right decisions that go beyond the box score.

This AAU season has been nothing short of explosive. Playing with D13 Elite, Kale made noise from the jump, scoring 19 points in a win at #BamaJam and following it up with 23 in Louisville at the Grassroots Showcase. By May, he was in full stride, putting up 18 points, 7 boards, 6 assists, and 2 steals in one game, and then dropping 21 and 24 in back-to-back performances. At the HoopSeen Atlanta Jam, Kale averaged 17.25 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3 steals per game, proving he can compete against top-tier competition and still stand out. He capped the weekend with a 24-point outing, showing off his all-around growth and fearless motor.

Kale’s summer goals are clear: take on the best, keep improving, and prove he’s one of the elite players in the state. The upcoming live periods in Atlanta are a huge chance to showcase his game in front of scouts, and he’s ready to seize every opportunity. Next season, he’s locked in on helping Siegel make a serious run at state, and being a leader who shows the younger guys what hard work and consistency really look like.

Fueling Kale is the memory of every doubter, every person who said he wouldn’t make it. That fire drives him to play harder, train longer, and believe deeper. When facing adversity, he pushes through and gets his teammates going, knowing that winning is a team effort. The best coaching advice he lives by is, “Basketball is a marathon, not a sprint.” It’s a reminder that this grind is all about steady growth, and Kale is built for it. Off the court, he balances life with workouts, hoops highlights, and the occasional 2K or Madden session.

I assess that Kale’s combination of quickness, toughness, and scoring mindset makes him a valuable weapon for any program. His ability to attack off the dribble, create for others, and defend multiple spots gives coaches plenty to build around. Add in his rising confidence and leadership potential, and you’ve got a guard who can impact both ends and thrive in high-pressure games.

Kale’s potential is only just starting to blossom. As he continues to grow physically and elevate his outside shot, his game will become even more dangerous. Expect him to keep evolving throughout high school, cementing himself as one of the most impactful and underrated guards in his class. He’s battle-tested, fearless, and just getting started. Stay tuned for a breakout season ahead.