"Lefty Firestorm: The Calm Controller with an Electric Edge"

Matt Burkhart

@Mattb224

@mattbball20

6’3, 175lbs, Class of 2026

Burlington High School, WI

Matt is a lefty combo guard with a fierce competitive spirit and commanding leadership presence. He fuels his team with relentless energy and contagious fire, elevating everyone around him. A true three-level scorer with a beautiful lefty stroke from deep, Matt is electric off the bounce, showcasing his ability to break down defenders and get to his spots. His calm, composed pace allows him to dictate the flow without ever getting sped up, masterfully facilitating while making dazzling passes in rhythm. He keeps everything within the structure of the offense, never forcing bad looks. Add in his scrappy defense and nose for the glass, and you’ve got a complete player who makes an impact in every phase of the game.

Matt’s strengths include his high basketball IQ, tight ball-handling, and the ability to create shots off the dribble. He’s focused on improving his defense, physicality, athleticism, and finishing through contact. After transferring to Burlington High School, he’s already made big strides, his frame has developed, his finishing is more polished, and his shot is more consistent. His goals are to win a conference title and earn Player of the Year honors. He embraces adversity, knowing it sharpens him for what lies ahead.

He’s no stranger to big moments. From starting varsity as a freshman to playing on a national AAU circuit, Matt’s been recognized among the top point guards in Wisconsin since day one. The rivalry matchup he’s most looking forward to is against Waterford, the defending conference champs. Outside of basketball, he plays piano, does card magic, and solves Rubik’s cubes, bringing the same sharp mind and work ethic to every interest.

Matt believes he's a D2 scholarship-level player, and he's all-in on making it happen. He is driven by his determination, elite mindset, and tireless work ethic. He studies film, competes every day, and separates himself with intangibles that don’t show up in box scores. With an offer from Rockford University and strong interest from schools like Cornell, Princeton, VMI, Youngstown State, Hillsdale, and Bemidji State, he’s proving he belongs. He’s taken visits to several campuses and continues to work like someone with everything to prove.

What fires Matt up most is his mental, physical, and emotional preparation. From the music in the locker room to the extra reps before game time, it all builds confidence. When facing adversity, he leans on his preparation and keeps pushing. The best advice he’s ever received is, “You only get one shot at this. Don’t leave anything on the table.” That drives him on the court, in the classroom, and in life.

I assess that Matt’s ability to control pace, score at all levels, and facilitate with maturity beyond his years gives him the tools to run an offense at the next level. His IQ, vocal leadership, and willingness to do the dirty work will make him an asset to any college program that values both skill and character.

As Matt continues to build strength, improve defensively, and take on greater leadership roles, expect his recruitment to rise. His all-around skill set and relentless mindset suggest a player ready to grow into a key contributor at the next level and beyond. Expect a breakout season ahead as Matt will be playing with passion and purpose one last time on this level, pushing himself to develop for the next, getting 1% better day by day. Stay tuned.