"Fire from Deep: The Stretch Forward with a Flame Trigger and Paint Presence"

Vedder MacTaggart

@Vedder_Mac

IG: vedder_mactaggart

6’4, 200lbs | Class of 2026

Marshfield High School, WI

Vedder is a true stretch four with a flamethrower from beyond the arc and a game that lights up when he gets hot. He brings rain with confidence from deep, capable of swinging momentum with a single shot. His size and strength make him a tough matchup at, and when he’s locked in, he’s a fire starter who can change the temperature of a game. He shoots it well, attacks the rim with purpose, and rebounds at a solid clip. In the paint, he has the size to impact the game defensively and on the glass, and when he’s fully engaged, he can take over possessions. He’s a competitor who’s learning to use his confidence and skill to become a complete forward with a strong upside and a desire to keep elevating.

This past weekend, Vedder exploded in the NY2LA Midwest Classic 17U division with a monster performance, dropping 21 points, snagging 6 rebounds, swatting 5 shots, and adding a steal in a thrilling 90–88 win over Drive Pro Select. He buried four threes and made his presence felt on both ends of the floor, showing exactly how dangerous he can be when the fire is lit. That kind of performance turned heads and reaffirmed his reputation as a forward who can stretch the floor and dominate the paint.

Throughout the season at Marshfield, he averaged 6.4 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, showing growth as a shooter and confidence in his scoring ability. His biggest improvement was his mindset, trusting his shot and becoming more assertive in his role. That trust showed up late in the season when he helped lead his team to the state tournament, gaining valuable experience under pressure. This offseason, his focus is on developing footwork and strengthening his defensive presence to round out his inside-out game. He’s determined to keep building on his momentum by locking in on areas that will make him more dominant on both ends.

With Wisconsin Playmakers this AAU season, Vedder is looking to grow his exposure and keep pushing for the next level. The Dallas tournament is circled on his calendar, and he’s excited for the opportunity to bond with his new teammates, build chemistry, and compete. He’s especially fired up when he gets hot from three, those heat-check moments where his confidence takes over. When things don’t go as planned, he talks to his coach or teammates, makes the right adjustments, and keeps moving forward. Whether it’s 84 feet of full-court defense or getting into a rhythm from deep, Vedder knows how to flip the switch.

Off the court, he keeps life balanced by hanging out with friends and enjoying the moments that let him recharge. There’s no ego, just a guy who wants to work, win, and keep getting better.

I assess that Vedder’s stretch-forward ability is a weapon. His three-point range spaces the floor and punishes defenses, and when he crashes the boards or rotates in the paint with purpose, he can control possessions. His confidence and shooting ability give him real value as a modern forward.

With continued growth in his footwork, defensive positioning, and consistency around the rim, Vedder has the tools to rise quickly. As he embraces his strengths and sharpens his versatility, he could become a major weapon for any program looking for a tough, skilled forward who brings energy and deep-range fire. Stay tuned!