"Relentless Disruptor: The Lethal Shooter, Lockdown Menace, and Two-Way Machine You Can’t Ignore"

Austin Hendricks

@AustinHendd

IG: @austin.hendricks24

6’2, 175lbs | Class of 2027

Notre Dame Academy, WI

Austin is an electric, complete, two-way beast who plays the game with high-level skill and fiery purpose. His silky-smooth touch makes him a catch-and-shoot sniper from deep, while his explosive first step and blow-by speed punish defenders off the bounce. He’s a fierce finisher who doesn’t flinch in traffic, using shifty footwork and strength to get downhill and score in tight windows. Austin moves with purpose off the ball, always hunting open looks, and knows how to set his feet and let it fly. His dazzling passing and good court vision turn him into a dual-threat creator, but it’s on the defensive end where he truly thrives. A tenacious on-ball defender with relentless energy, he clamps down on the opponent’s top scorer and turns defense into offense in a flash. His instincts in the passing lanes are elite, he makes steals look effortless, like taking candy from a baby. He mixes it up well on the glass, competes with heart, and plays the game the right way every time down the floor. Coaches get a high-IQ, high-motor, fierce competitor who lives for the battle.

During his sophomore season, Austin averaged 7.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1 steal per game while shooting 36% from three. But his numbers only tell part of the story. His defensive impact was undeniable, locking down top assignments every night and earning All-Defensive honors in the FRCC conference. His biggest improvements came in his shooting and ball-handling, and the game slowed down for him as he began making smarter reads and more confident plays. He’s working hard to elevate his midrange game and become more comfortable shooting off the dribble. Those are key areas of focus this summer with AAU squad 1848, where he’s already become one of the leading scorers. His performances at Prep Hoops Battle at the Lakes and Prep Hoops Madness in the Midwest were a strong statement, averaging 13 points and 5.3 rebounds while shooting a blistering 50% from deep, over 74% from the field, and over 83% at the line. Austin doesn’t just want to shine but wants to become more efficient, more dangerous, and more complete.

Looking ahead to the UA Rise tournament in Atlanta, Austin is fired up to face elite competition and raise his game even further. He’s also focused on stepping into a primary role at Notre Dame Academy next season. With two years of varsity under his belt, he’s excited to see how his understanding of the game continues to grow and how much more in control he can play with. He’s determined to be the player who makes the fewest mistakes, plays with intensity, and finishes every play. Nothing fuels his fire more than being doubted. When someone questions him or tries to rattle him, it only fuels a new level of intensity. Packed gyms and roaring crowds push him even harder, and he welcomes the pressure.

When facing adversity, Austin faces it head-on with maturity and toughness, knowing that how he responds is what separates the good from the great. The best coaching advice he’s ever received is, “It’s up to you what you make of every opportunity”, and “It’s not your shot, it’s the team’s shot.” That unselfish, all-in mindset is why he started every game last season and was also recognized as a WBCA Academic All-State selection. Austin plays with passion, pride, and purpose, and he's far from finished.

I assess that Austin’s skill set translates to winning basketball. His blend of explosive offense, stifling defense, elite instincts, and court awareness makes him a valuable two-way asset at the next level. His nonstop motor and ability to thrive under pressure make him a game-changer in any system.

Expect Austin to explode as a leader and a primary scoring option next season. As he develops his midrange and off-the-dribble game, he’ll emerge as a consistent offensive force. His energy, work ethic, and relentless edge point to a high ceiling and a future that keeps getting brighter. Austin's potential is sky-high, and that defensive swagger is special. We call that the "DOGG" mentality, and you can't teach that. Stay tuned for a breakout season, and know he is just scratching the surface of just how high he can fly.