"Built for the Paint: Grit, Growth, and a Rising Presence"

Levi Persley

Instagram is lee_56744

6’5, 180lbs, Class of 2029

Dupont Manual HS, KY

Levi is a gritty, physical space eater who plays the game with blue-collar toughness and real intent inside the paint. He welcomes contact, lives in the middle of the floor, and makes his mark through effort plays that flip momentum. Put-backs, second chances, and strong finishes around the rim are where he does damage, but his game does not stop there. He runs the floor well, shows comfort attacking off the bounce, and can settle into the post where his crafty footwork and growing strength allow him to score from the middy down to the block. Defenders who relax are quickly reminded that he can step out and knock down the three as well.

Levi’s approach is mature beyond his years. He lets the game come to him and does not hunt shots, trusting that his activity and positioning will create opportunities naturally. That mindset shows up in the numbers. He is currently averaging 15 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, production that reflects a player who checks every box of the offense. His biggest improvement has been strength, and it shows in how he holds his ground, finishes through contact, and competes on the glass possession after possession.

Development is already on his mind. Expanding his guard play is a clear focus, and that willingness to grow hints at his hunger to evolve more. When games get physical, Levi responds the right way. Aggression from opponents does not rattle him. It sharpens his focus and helps him read timing and moments even better. When facing adversity, he turns it into motivation, staying locked in on effort and impact rather than emotion.

Looking ahead, Levi’s goals are to help his team continue to advance and excel as the season moves forward, while earning more opportunities at the varsity level to showcase the full scope of his game. With his size, motor, and steady growth, he is a rising piece with real breakout potential.

I assess that Levi’s physicality, rebounding presence, and instinct for effort play give him immediate value to any program. His ability to score without needing plays called for him helps stabilize lineups, while his passing ability adds an extra tool to his offensive arsenal. As his perimeter skills continue to grow, his versatility becomes even more appealing.

Expect Levi to keep rising as his strength and guard development continue to come together. His mindset, willingness to do the work, and comfort in physical battles point toward a player who will keep expanding his role. With more varsity reps and continued growth, he projects as a dependable inside-out presence who can influence games in multiple ways.