"Shift, Sauce, and Sniper Work: The Controlled Chaos of a Scoring Machine"

Gavin Popik

@GPopik

IG: @Gav.popik

6’2, 184lbs, Class of 2026

Olathe Northwest HS, KS

Gavin is an electric three-level scoring threat with sick handles and a shifty, explosive style that keeps defenders guessing, and usually frozen. He doesn’t just break you down, he breaks your spirit. Whether it’s a quick pull-up, a lightning blowby, or a smooth middy, he scores with confidence and flair. He reads the floor like a point guard, sees traps before they form, and drops dimes through tight windows. If he sizes you, its already too late for the defense, its a quick pull-up money ball while the defender is helplessly frozen. Crafty off the bounce and fearless when slashing downhill, Gavin doesn’t just fill it up;

He controls the pace, sets the tone, and always finds a way to turn the game in his favor. What separates him is that fast, physical play style mixed with a high-level IQ that allows him to make smart decisions under pressure. He’s even active on the glass, mixing it up on both ends, showing how complete his game really is.

This past season, Gavin averaged 19 points, 3 assists, and 4 rebounds per game while leading a young team and earning 2nd Team All-State and 2nd Team All-Sunflower honors. His biggest improvement came from deep, developing a consistent three-point shot and elevating his midrange pull-up into a lethal weapon. With more defenders playing him tight, he also worked on making better reads against doubles and traps, often finding open teammates for easy buckets. That same poise helped him earn MVP honors at the De Soto Tournament and drop a 37-piece in a league game against Shawnee Mission East, setting the tone for a breakout junior season. This offseason, his focus is expanding that range even further to make the game even more dangerous once he crosses half-court.

He’s now playing with SSA Elite and stepping into the July live periods with hunger and fire, excited for the chance to show out in front of coaches and continue climbing the recruiting ladder. He’s using every opportunity to push his limits and get better, being coached hard, taking every rep seriously, and soaking up the grind. His AAU goals are to compete, grow, and get recruited. He’s looking for the right fit, one that values work ethic, playmaking, and leadership. Gavin’s not just in it for stats or highlights; he’s working to lead a young squad back to the state tournament for one last ride with his brothers.

What fuels him is knowing that the job’s never finished. Every game, every rep, every drill is another chance to prove that he hasn’t arrived yet. That hunger shows in the effort like diving on loose balls, crashing the boards, leading huddles, and taking the last shot when it matters most. And when facing adversity, he remembers the thousands of reps behind the scenes and steps up as a vocal leader, helping his team settle in and get back on track without flinching. The best advice he ever got came from many voices, but each one helped shape the confident, fierce floor general he’s become.

Off the court, Gavin is grounded by his love for family and friends and is a true student of the game, watching basketball at every level and always learning. He carries that love into how he plays, smart, intense, and with purpose.

I assess that Gavin brings a college-ready offensive arsenal, three-level scoring, court vision, and the ability to create off the dribble. But what makes him more valuable is his decision-making under pressure and willingness to lead. He can be a program-changer for a team that wants a guard who can produce right away, get others involved, and set a competitive tone.

Expect Gavin to rise even higher this summer and into his senior season. His improved range and leadership will make him one of the most dangerous guards in the region. He has all the tools, handle, heart, and hunger to keep growing into a complete, next-level playmaker who makes a major impact wherever he lands. Playing with passion and purpose, this final year should be special. Stay tuned for a statement season ahead.