"Quiet Confidence, Big Results"

Austin Stangel

@AustinS_2028

IG: @Aus10.09

5’10, 150lbs, Class of 2028

Troy Christian, OH

Austin is a rising guard whose confidence is growing along with his production. He is a lights-out shooter with unlimited range who understands spacing, timing, and how to punish defenses that lose discipline. His touch from the perimeter is smooth and lethal, and when defenders press up, he is comfortable putting the ball on the floor to create space or make the right read. He plays with poise, shows a high basketball IQ, and competes on the defensive end with strong on-ball pressure. The game is slowing down for him, and it shows in how controlled and confident he looks possession after possession.

As a freshman, Austin averaged 7.0 points per game while shooting 47 percent from three. This season, his growth has elevated across the board, averaging 8.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 52.5 percent from the field, a blistering 42.1 percent from three, and 81.3 percent from the free-throw line. One of the biggest improvements has been decision-making. After being turnover-prone last season, his assist-to-turnover ratio has climbed to around 2.0, showing a much better feel for pace and control.

That confidence showed up on the scoreboard when he went for a new career high 20 points against Northridge, letting it fly in rhythm, punishing defenders who went under, and making them pay every time they lost track of him on the perimeter. He followed that up by raising the bar even higher against Bethel, scoring 31 points and hitting 9 threes. Shot after shot fell because he stayed patient, stayed poised, and trusted his work. Defenders had to stay attached well beyond the arc, and once they did, the floor opened up even more.

Austin’s goals are rooted in team success. He is focused on helping lead an older group to a deep tournament run and being a steady leader on the court with energy and communication. He feeds off the environment and emotion of the game, and that edge brings out his best. The confidence that once flashed is now showing up consistently as his role continues to grow.

Faith plays a huge role in how Austin handles adversity and pressure. He turns to prayer for peace and trusts the hours he has already put in. That foundation allows him to stay calm, stay composed, and play free when the moment gets big.

I assess that Austin brings shooting ability, improved decision-making, and a competitive edge that can elevate a lineup. His efficiency, ball security, and willingness to defend allow him to impact winning without forcing the game.

As his strength, off-ball defense, and athleticism continue to evolve, Austin’s confidence and production are only going to keep rising. Expect a dependable guard who continues to grow into bigger moments and turns preparation into performance. Stay tuned.