"Hard Hat Hustle: The High-IQ Forward Built to Battle"

Braylen Siebenmorgen

@BraylenSiebenm1

IG: @braylen.siebenmorgen25

6’5, 205lbs, Class of 2027

Hiawatha HS, KS

Braylen is a no-nonsense forward who thrives on the little things that make a team tick. With good size and team-first mentality, he sets the tone with physical screens, second-chance points, and a deep understanding of how to create advantages. His feel for timing on offensive rebounds and vision to kick out for open threes make him a quiet catalyst in the half-court. While he’s continuing to elevate his perimeter defense and shot selection, he plays with purpose, energy, and a clear desire to grow into a complete forward who stretches the floor and competes on both ends.

After missing nearly his entire freshman season with a broken foot, Braylen returned with a renewed drive and earned a varsity starting spot for his entire sophomore year, averaging 8.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, nearly a steal per game, and shooting nearly 75% from the free-throw line. His biggest improvement wasn’t just in stats, though, it was in his work ethic, consistency, and confidence. With a hunger to keep improving, he’s locked in this offseason on becoming a more efficient three-point shooter and smarter decision-maker in high-pressure moments.

This AAU season, he plays for SSA Elite 16U White and is fully embracing both the competition and camaraderie the game brings. One of his favorite memories came in Denver, where he traveled farther than ever for basketball and bonded deeply with teammates who were strangers just months ago. That sense of unity is what he’s chasing again this high school season. Last year, Hiawatha knocked off four ranked teams, and with the team’s chemistry and belief, Braylen believes they can become a playoff threat in 3A.

He feeds off crowd energy and lives for those adrenaline-packed moments when the gym explodes after a clutch play. But what keeps him grounded in adversity is his love for the game and the reminder that basketball has been a gift in his life for over a decade. Off the court, he finds peace in golfing, fishing with friends, and relaxing with his girlfriend and family. The best advice he’s ever received is, "You only get one shot at high school basketball, make it count."

I assess that Braylen brings value to a college program as a gritty, selfless forward with excellent rebounding instincts and team awareness. His screening, passing out of offensive rebounds, and willingness to do the dirty work allow scorers around him to thrive. As his shot and perimeter defense continue to evolve, he’s positioning himself to be a stretch forward who fits any system.

With his work ethic, size, and understanding of how to impact the game without needing the ball, Braylen has the tools to carve out a meaningful role at the next level. Expect him to be a steady riser in the coming years as he grows in confidence, shooting range, and all-around skill set. He’s a name to watch as he continues to climb. His potential is sky-high as the ultimate blue-collar gem but with breakout potential. Stay tuned.