"Fueled By Doubt: The Firepower Underclassmen Who Refuses to Be Overlooked"

Haynes Brookhart

@Haynesbrookhart2028

IG: @Haynes_Brookhart_2028

6’4, 175lbs, Class of 2028

JJ Pearce High School, TX

Haynes is an electric stud with a rainmaker from deep and a bag full of ways to destroy defenses. His jumper is smooth, his middy is deadly, and when he gets downhill, he finishes through contact with a fierce edge. He’s a three-level scoring threat who can torch you off the dribble or spot up and let it fly. Haynes has elite shooting touch and deep range, making him one of the top shooters in his class. His ability to move without the ball, recognize spacing, and get his shot off quickly gives him an edge even against high-level defenders. On the defensive end, he’s no slouch either, Haynes consistently takes on the challenge of guarding the opponent’s top scorer and embraces every second of it. His IQ, size, and feel for the game make him a valuable piece beyond just scoring but a two-way dynamo. He’s a smart, composed competitor who elevates the team on both ends.

As a freshman on varsity, Haynes wasted no time proving he belonged. He started 11 games and helping JJ Pearce to a 20-win season. He averaged 10.2 points per game (11.5 in district), 2.5 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 1.2 steals, and just 1 turnover per contest. He shot 45% from the field, 36% from beyond the arc, and 54% inside the line, numbers that speak for themselves for a first-year high school player. His biggest improvement came in his off-ball movement, learning when to cut when to space, and how to find soft spots in the defense to catch and shoot. This offseason, Haynes is locked in on improving his foot speed, tightening up his defensive pressure, and continuing to elevate his impact as an all-around defender.

Haynes is playing with Texas Impact on the UAA Circuit this summer, and he’s locked in on improving his help defense, elevating his reads, and showing he can battle with the best in the country. The UAA Finals in Chicago (July 18–21) are circled on his calendar, and he’s coming with something to prove. Next season, he’s determined to help Pearce make a serious playoff run, three rounds deep or more, and lead a program that now sees him as a centerpiece. What lights his fire most is being doubted. People label him as soft or question his athleticism, but that noise only fuels him. He plays with a chip and responds with action.

When facing adversity, it doesn’t shake Haynes, it strengthens him. He embraces it as a challenge and keeps a “next play” mindset. The best coaching advice he’s ever received is, “Have a mind like a goldfish.” Short memory, steady focus, constant growth. One of the most powerful moments of the season came when his dad, a former Texas A&M D1 player, told him he believed in his ability to contribute right away at the varsity level. That belief helped unlock a new gear.

Off the court, Haynes enjoys quality time with friends and family, relaxing with video games, and keeping the game close by reffing younger players and staying active in his community. He capped off the year by earning Newcomer of the Year honors and continues to gain attention as one of the smoother all-around prospects in the class.

I assess that Haynes combines elite shooting with poise, off-ball movement, and defensive intent. His ability to space the floor, make smart reads, and take on tough assignments makes him a dynamic fit in any system. He plays bigger than his size and thinks faster than most his age, traits that translate well to the next level.

As Haynes continues to add strength and continues building his defensive presence, expect his star to rise fast. His touch, mindset, and competitive fire make him more than just a shooter, he’s a well-rounded weapon. The future is bright, and the doubters are just more fuel. Expect a breakout season ahead. Stay tuned.