"Rising Force in the Paint: Strength, Versatility, and Impact"

Braden Elam

@bradenelam11

IG: @braden_elam13

6'8, 200lbs, Class of 2027

Campbell County HS, KY

Braden is emerging as a rising star with a solid summer of growth and development under his belt. He brings length, size, and impact in the paint. Braden thrives around the rim, where his ability to rebound and finish strong sets him apart, and his growth spurt has only added to his impact. He plays with toughness and a team-first mentality that makes him a reliable piece of the lineup. Coaches know that when Braden is on the floor, they’re getting a competitor who battles every possession, protects the rim, and runs hard in transition.

Last season, Braden averaged 4 points and 4 rebounds per game, shooting 63% from the field. His biggest improvement came in becoming more explosive and physical in the paint, which gave him the confidence to play stronger and finish through contact. This offseason, he’s been focused on expanding his post moves, improving touch around the basket, and evolving his game beyond the paint. Adding consistency to his middy and stretching the floor have been key goals, along with developing his ball-handling to become a more versatile threat. Defensively, Braden has locked in on his timing, footwork, and pick-and-roll coverage, while putting in the strength and conditioning work to anchor the paint and keep pace in transition.

One of the most impactful changes in Braden’s journey has been his physical growth, shooting up six inches in the past year, and his decision to quit baseball to fully commit to basketball. That choice opened the door for him to play AAU, where he reached his goal of becoming more versatile and proving he can impact the game in more ways than just the low post. His playing style reflects that versatility: finishing strong inside, dunking with power, protecting the rim, and stepping out to knock down shots when needed. He thrives off momentum plays, whether it’s his own dunk, a big play from teammate Austin Davie, or even responding to trash talk with toughness and poise.

Braden’s fire is matched by his mindset. He doesn’t dwell on mistakes; instead, he shifts focus quickly to the next play, always locked in on what’s ahead. That ability to stay composed makes him dependable under pressure. With Coach Sowder’s constant reminder that he has gifts that can’t be taught, Braden embraces his natural tools while working relentlessly to maximize them. His dream of playing college basketball fuels him daily, and he’s determined to help his team cut down three nets this season: district, regional, and state.

Off the court, Braden enjoys the weight room, where he builds the strength and conditioning that support his game. This is another reflection of his commitment, putting in the work to make sure he’s not just tall but tough, durable, and ready for the battles ahead.

I assess that Braden’s size and developing versatility give him strong upside for the next level. His rebounding presence, rim protection, and willingness to run the floor make him a valuable piece for any college program looking for a big who can adapt to different roles. With continued development in ball-handling and perimeter shooting, he has the potential to become a multi-dimensional forward who fits into modern systems. His toughness and team-first approach only add to his value.

Looking forward, Braden is on track to be more than just a big body in the paint, but he’s building toward being a versatile frontcourt player who can score inside, stretch the floor, and defend multiple actions. His rapid growth, physical development, and improved confidence make him poised for a breakout season ahead. With his work ethic and hunger to keep pushing, Braden has the potential to be a key contributor and a name worth following closely. Stay tuned.