"Lockdown Swagger with a Shooter’s Touch"

Christian Calderone

@christiancaldd

IG: @christiancaldd

5’11, 172lbs, Class of 2025

Southeastern Prep Academy, FL

Altona Gators, Melbourne, Victoria

Christian brings a high motor approach every time he steps on the floor. A tough, physical combo guard, he impacts games on both ends and takes real pride in his defense. He is comfortable picking up full court, locking in for 94 feet, and making life uncomfortable for opposing guards. Offensively, he fits the mold of a true three-and-D guard, spacing the floor with confidence, raining shots from deep, and making the right play, whether that means scoring or setting the table for teammates. He consistently handles the small details that fuel a game-winning basketball.

This past season at Southeastern Prep Academy, Christian averaged 13.7 points and 3 steals per game while shooting a blistering 40 percent from three. Those numbers reflect more than production, they show growth. One of his biggest improvements during his time at SEPA was his ability to create high percentage looks for himself, along with noticeable gains in strength and physicality from daily work in the weight room. That added strength now shows up in his defense, his finishes, and his overall impact on the floor.

Since returning to Australia, Christian has taken another important step by being selected as a development player with the Altona Gators in the Big V League, a semi-pro environment. His focus is locked in on learning what it truly means to be a professional by soaking up knowledge from veteran players, including league MVP Mitch Smith. Being around experienced pros has sharpened his understanding of preparation, consistency, and accountability.

Coaches can expect a guard who embraces any role asked of him and executes it efficiently. Whether that means leading a team, hitting open shots in pressure moments, or taking on the opposing team’s best perimeter scorer, Christian shows up ready to work. He brings energy, toughness, and a competitive edge, feeding off fast-paced play and the back-and-forth intensity that comes with high-level basketball.

A visit to UCLA with the Aussie Prospects program added another layer to his mindset. Conversations with Dave Andrews, the director of men’s athletic performance, reinforced the importance of routine, consistency, and daily habits. The idea of improving by just 1% each day stuck with Christian and continues to shape how he approaches his training and preparation.

Following his postgraduate season, Christian has picked up offers and interest from the University of the Southwest, Florida College, Reinhardt University, and Pratt Institute, along with potential opportunities from an NBL1 program in Australia and a professional team in Spain. He is taking his time, evaluating each option, and looking for the right college program that truly feels like home, while remaining open to new opportunities.

Christian’s defensive intensity, physical guard play, and ability to stretch the floor give him clear value at the next level. His willingness to embrace roles and handle tough assignments allows him to fit into a variety of systems, especially programs that value effort, discipline, and perimeter defense.

Moving forward, Christian is poised to be a dependable guard whose game continues to grow through experience and consistency. With continued development in pro-style environments and the same daily work ethic, he has the tools to contribute early and steadily build his impact within a college program.