"Downhill Pressure With Playmaking Control"

Baylon Ward

@Braylonward10

IG: @braylom.ward10

6’1, 175lbs, Class of 2027

Union Educational Complex, WV

Braylon is a slashing playmaker who lives in attack mode and puts constant pressure on the paint. He gets downhill with purpose, forcing defenders to make quick decisions, either stepping up late or watching him slice through gaps. Once he is in the lane, he has the vision and patience to dish it off to teammates or finish strong himself. That balance keeps defenses guessing. When defenders back off, he is comfortable stepping into open shots, and his pull-up jumper has become a real weapon when he gets to his spots. On the other end, his defense sets the tone, using anticipation and toughness to disrupt ball handlers and turn stops into instant opportunities.

The numbers speak loud and clear of his growth and impact. Last season, Braylon averaged 19.6 points, 3.4 assists, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.3 steals per game while doing a little bit of everything for his team. This season, he has taken another step, raising his production to 25.4 points, 3.3 assists, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game. That elevation shows a player who has expanded his game while carrying more responsibility and continuing to impact winning in multiple areas.

The biggest improvement from last year to this year has been his three-point shooting. Braylon is raining more shots from deep and playing with real confidence in that part of his game. His ball-handling has also taken a jump, allowing him to bring the ball up comfortably, get the offense rolling, and run sets with control. The focus moving forward is continuing to build on his handles, staying strong against pressure, and pushing his three-point consistency even further.

Leadership and winning sit at the heart of his goals. This season, Braylon is locked in on leading his team to a positive record and making a run to the state tournament. Looking ahead, the plan is to build off what has already been established and keep getting better every time he steps on the floor. Big moments fuel him. A steal, a clutch shot, or a teammate making a great play all spark his energy and raise his level of play.

When facing adversity, Braylon slows himself down, takes a couple of deep breaths, and locks back in on what needs to be done. That ability to reset and refocus allows him to stay steady and continue impacting the game on both ends, even when momentum shifts.

I assess that Braylon brings a college program a downhill guard who can pressure the paint, make smart reads, and score at a high clip while still rebounding and defending with edge. His ability to attack, defend, and playmake gives him the tools to impact winning in multiple roles.

Moving forward, Braylon continues to evolve as a confident scorer and leader who embraces responsibility. As his handles tighten under pressure and his shooting from deep keeps improving, his overall impact will continue to grow, positioning him as a guard capable of driving results at the next level. Stay tuned.