"Clutch Control and Cold-Blooded Buckets"

Braden Buckingham

@BradenBuckingh1

IG: @braden.buckingham

6’1, 170lbs, Class of 2026

Crossings Christian School, OK

Braden is a gritty, high-IQ floor general with unlimited range and court vision to match. Braden thrives in chaos but plays with calm. Whether it’s scorching the nets out of pick-and-roll action, creating separation for a jumper, or locking up the other team’s best scorer, he adapts to whatever the game demands. He doesn’t just defend but welcomes the challenge. He picks up full court, gets in your chest, and plays with a chip that turns defense into fuel. His swagger on that end sets the tone. Combine that with deceptive handles, good footwork, and the ability to deliver dazzling dime or dagger shots, and you’ve got a leader built for the biggest moments.

This past season, he averaged 14.1 points, 4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting a blistering 42% from three. But the biggest improvement didn’t show up in the stat sheet, but was in his decision-making and shot selection. Braden became more composed in key moments, learned to get better looks, and made smarter reads with the ball in his hands. His improvement earned attention across multiple circuits, including a standout stretch at the Chicago Finale where he averaged 15.6 points, 4.75 rebounds, 3.75 assists, 3 steals, and less than one turnover per game. Even more impressive, he led his squad to a 4-2 record, with the only two losses coming by a combined 3 points.

When he stepped back on the floor with SATexoma Hoops, Braden put on a shooting clinic, averaging 18 points per game on a blistering 70% from deep and 68% from inside the arc. The numbers speak for themselves, but his impact runs deeper. He gets his team into early offense, keeps spacing tight, and knows when to call his own number or feed the hot hand. He plays both guard spots, guards full court, and brings vocal leadership every game.

This offseason, he’s been locked in on working on left-hand finishing, tightening his handles, and adding explosiveness to help him finish through contact at the rim. He’s also focused on becoming a more vocal leader and adding even more weight and strength. After a heartbreaking loss in the state finals, Braden’s motivation is personal. He wants another shot, and he’s coming for it.

Coaches can expect relentless energy, self-discipline, and a guy who loves the grind. He’s coachable, competitive, and built to win. Whether he’s getting a steal, throwing a lob, or silencing a crowd with a cold-blooded jumper, Braden feeds off the intensity of big moments. When facing adversity, he stays locked in, keeps calm, and goes right back to work.

Off the floor, Braden is into golf and fashion, two things that reflect his sharp mind and clean approach. And while he’s already gained exposure and competed with elite talent, he knows there’s still another level to reach, and he’s not stopping until he gets there.

I assess that Braden’s mix of skill, IQ, and toughness gives him the ability to lead any backcourt. His decision-making, elite shooting percentages, and ability to control tempo make him a player you trust with the ball when the game’s on the line. He brings leadership, accountability, and consistent production at both ends of the floor.

As Braden continues to develop his body, explosiveness, and finishing package, his ceiling only rises. He’s already proven he can score efficiently, guard at a high level, and facilitate the offense. With one more season left to get a title, don’t be surprised when his name gains serious traction with programs looking for a true winner at the guard spot. Stay tuned.