"Built to Break You Down: The Underdog with Handles, Hustle, and Heart"

Samir Bakaev

@Samirbakaev8

6’2, 160lbs, Class of 2025

Midwood HS, NY

Samir is the kind of guard who gives defenders nightmares. Quick, shifty, and endlessly creative off the bounce, he weaves through traffic with elite handles and floor vision that can pick apart any defense. His pull-up game is smooth, his catch-and-shoot touch is pure, and his floater package is a problem. Samir is more than just a skilled scorer, he’s a fearless competitor and high-IQ floor general who plays with intensity and pride on both ends of the floor. A relentless defender and vocal leader, he brings nonstop energy and effort, mixing it up on the boards and fueling fast breaks with his motor. He’s not just hooping but sending a message every time he steps on the floor.

After averaging 18 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds, and 3 steals per game this past season. His biggest improvement was his confidence and consistency, knocking down shots from all three levels while becoming more aggressive attacking the rim. His IQ and timing took a major step forward, too, allowing him to make smarter decisions and elevate his teammates in big moments. This offseason, he’s locked in on getting stronger and more physical, tightening his handle even more, and continuing to develop his off-hand finishing and floater game. His goal is to show up next season ready, whether that means prep or college, with a polished, complete game and a body built to compete.

Samir plays with NY Select on the Made Hoops Circuit, and he’s already proven he can hold his own against top East Coast competition. He’s looking forward to the live event at Oak, PA, on July 12–13, where the spotlight will be bright and opportunity even brighter. His AAU goals are to elevate his game against real defenders and make sure his name is on the radar for college and prep coaches across the country.

But for Samir, the fire runs deeper than just competition. He plays for his mother, the person who sacrifices everything to support his dream. That motivation pushes him to give his all, every game, every workout, every rep. And when facing adversity, he relies on his faith, knowing God’s plan has a purpose. He believes in the work. He believes in the dream. And he believes it’s coming.

I assess that Samir’s creativity, defensive intensity, and scoring versatility make him a serious weapon at the guard spot. His ability to run an offense, break down defenders, and make timely plays gives him the tools to be a dynamic impact player at the next level, especially as he adds size.

The underdog label won’t last long. Samir is a driven competitor whose game keeps evolving. As his body fills out and his skillset tightens, expect him to rise quickly. He’s not just here to keep up, he’s here to take over. Stay tuned.