"High-Voltage Playmaker with Lockdown Grit and Scoring Firepower"

Eli Gilpin

@gilpin_eli

IG: @gilpineli

6’3”, 165lbs, Class of 2028

South Ripley HS, IN

Eli flips the game’s intensity the second he checks in. He is a high-energy guard with length and bounce. He thrives on making life miserable for opposing ball-handlers, turning pressure defense into easy offense. His ability to create, whether by scoring, facilitating, or sparking a defensive run, makes him the total package that coaches love. His versatility allows him to impact the game in multiple ways, and he carries himself as a leader who values both his own growth and the success of his teammates.

Although injury cut his season short, Eli’s return in sectionals and regionals showed just how impactful he can be, quickly emerging as one of the team’s leading scorers. His biggest improvement came from the perimeter, where he elevated his 3-point shooting, adding another dangerous weapon to his offensive game. Now, he’s locked in on improving his explosiveness, vertical ability, and ball-handling, while continuing to develop as a vocal leader and team-first competitor.

Eli’s AAU season was nothing short of dominant. Playing with TSI Select 15U, he led the team in scoring at 20.5 points per game, shooting a blistering 40% from three and 55% from the field, while also averaging 3.1 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.5 steals. His impact was crucial to TSI’s 38-4 summer run, capped with a Reebok World Championship in St. Louis. His standout moment came on a big stage at the Battle of the Bridges All-Star Game, where he scored 17 points, adding multiple steals, and walked away as MVP for Team Indiana in a gritty showdown against Team Kentucky.

With South Ripley ranked #1 in 2A most of last season, Eli played an ikey role as just a freshman, coming off the bench as the sixth man and helping fuel a deep state tournament run. Now, heading into his sophomore season, he’s ready to take on an even bigger role, looking forward to winning, leading, and elevating his team. He describes himself as a high-intensity player and a creator, fueled most when he sees his teammates succeed. He prides himself on staying calm in adversity, leaning into his strengths, and carrying the mindset that no matter who’s on the floor, he has to believe he’s the best player.

Off the court, Eli enjoys time with family and friends, staying grounded in the support system that keeps him balanced. His leadership shines not just through his play but through the way he uplifts teammates and makes them feel valued. That rare combination of grit, talent, and selflessness is what sets him apart.

I assess that Eli’s ability to pressure defensively, stretch the floor with his shooting, and create in transition makes him a high-level guard with immediate impact potential for any program. His length, IQ, and nonstop motor allow him to play bigger than his position while giving coaches a two-way presence who can change momentum in an instant.

Looking ahead, Eli is moving toward being one of Indiana’s premier guards in the 2028 class. His summer performance already proved he can shine against top competition, and with his focus on athleticism, leadership, and consistency, his ceiling is rising fast. Expect him to continue being the tone-setter on defense while evolving into a complete offensive weapon capable of carrying a team deep into postseason runs. This young star is just getting started and is a name you will want to remember. Stay tuned as this train is only gonna pick up steam.