"Sniper Mode Activated: The All-Around Threat Who Can Torch You From Anywhere"

Eli Rutten

@EliRutten23

IG: @eli_rutten23

6’2, 175lbs | Class of 2026

Staples-Motley HS, MN

Eli is an absolute weapon, one of those rare players who can light you up from anywhere on the floor. He’s a certified sniper with a silky-smooth touch from deep, firing off catch-and-shoot bombs with barely a sliver of daylight. But he’s not just a shooter, he’s explosive off the bounce, a fierce finisher at the rim, and an aggressive attacker who never shies from contact. Eli plays with a fiery edge and creative flair, using crafty handles and speed to slice through defenders and get buckets with confidence. He rebounds like a bigger guard thanks to his strength and bounce, drops sweet dimes in transition, and plays with a strong defensive swagger. Whether he's spacing the floor, creating off the dribble, or locking in defensively, Eli brings a high-IQ, team-first style that every coach wants in their locker room.

After a big year where he averaged 17.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, Eli proved his scoring is no fluke. He rained down threes at a blistering 44.7% clip and shot over 50% inside the arc, showcasing the full range of his scoring package. His biggest improvements were on the defensive end and on the glass, areas he made a point to elevate. This offseason, he's locked in on improving his middy and scoring off the dribble, aiming to add more versatility to his offensive bag. Playing with Comets Elite 17U Kuhl, his goals are to stay in attack mode, get more exposure, and elevate every aspect of his game against top-tier talent. The NHR State Tournament had him locked in, and looking ahead, Eli is excited to take on a more off-ball scoring role for his high school squad, reading screens and creating open looks on the move.

What really fires Eli up is watching his team thrive. That collective energy fuels him and keeps him going no matter the adversity. He handles tough moments with maturity, knowing hard work always wins out. The best advice he’s ever been given is, "Control the controllables like attitude and effort". That's what he lives by every time he steps on the floor. And when he’s not torching nets on the court, Eli’s strapping up the helmet and pads, proving his grit and athleticism carry over to the football field, too.

I assess that Eli’s mix of elite shooting, strong rebounding, sharp decision-making, and developing off-the-dribble scoring makes him a plug-and-play weapon at the next level. His willingness to improve on the defensive end and elevate his teammates shows a maturity and completeness that college coaches love to build around.

Expect Eli to keep evolving and his stock to keep rising. As he rounds out his midrange game and improving his movement without the ball, he’ll become one of the most dangerous scoring threats in his class. With his fearless mindset and nonstop motor, his long-term potential is sky-high. Stay tuned for yet another monster season ahead.