"Grounded Grit, Relentless Fire: The Eraser with a Versatile Scoring Bag"

Gavin Wettlaufer

@GavinWettlaufer

6’8”, 215lbs, Class of 2026

Bellevue HS, WA

Gavin is a fierce two-way dynamo, part punisher, part protector. A true inside-out threat, he can stretch the floor with a smooth catch-and-shoot touch or lower the boom with a sizzling post game that ends in rim-rocking throwdowns. He gobbles up rebounds like candy and swats shots with ruthless intent, making him a certified eraser on the defensive end. Whether he’s stepping out to rain a three or crashing the lane with explosive purpose, Gavin’s combination of mobility, length, and toughness makes him a matchup nightmare and a game-changer in every phase. Coaches aren’t just getting size, they’re getting a relentless competitor who plays the right way and wants to win with his team.

This past AAU season, Gavin averaged 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, showcasing the full spectrum of his game on a national stage. He used the circuit to test himself against elite talent, elevate his exposure, and grow into the scholarship-caliber forward he’s proving to be. Ranked as a Top 50 player in Washington and Top 5 at his position, Gavin didn’t start for his high school team early due to a deep senior-heavy roster, but when given the keys during AAU, he answered in a major way. His biggest improvements have come in his strength, shooting consistency, and defensive presence. From snatching rebounds and blocking shots to spacing the floor and finishing powerfully at the rim, Gavin’s growth has been electric.

What sets him apart isn’t just the stat line, but the energy and mindset he brings. Gavin thrives on making momentum-changing stops, flying around the court to protect the rim or lock up the perimeter. Offensively, he finishes strong and stays within the flow of the system, always playing with a high IQ and a team-first attitude. He plays unselfish, makes the extra pass, and leads vocally through adversity, lifting his teammates and keeping everyone focused. This past season’s 25–6 varsity run included a marquee win over Bishop Gorman at the Desert Classic in Palm Springs and a top-100 national ranking. Gavin played a supporting role then, but this upcoming season, he’s primed to step into leadership and make another deep run with a much bigger impact.

A coach can expect a selfless, coachable athlete who gives everything on both ends. Gavin is locked in on improving his speed and ball handling and continuing to transform into a modern, positionless power forward. What fires him up most is big stops, team wins, and staying connected through the grind. His favorite coaching advice is, "Focus on the next plays, something he carries with him in every game. Away from the court, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and enjoying life with the same calm, composed presence he brings to the game.

I assess that Gavin’s unique blend of size, athleticism, and unselfish play allows him to impact every part of the game. Whether he’s spacing the floor, crashing the glass, or protecting the paint, his motor and mindset will immediately elevate any college program that values toughness, leadership, and versatility.

With a breakout high school season ahead and valuable AAU reps already under his belt, Gavin’s potential continues to grow. Expect him to keep rising this year as he steps into a bigger role, evolves his perimeter skills, and develops into one of the most complete and impactful forwards in the Pacific Northwest. Stay tuned.