" The Calm Assassin: A Shooter’s Mind and a Playmaker’s Touch"

Ethan Ragland

@RaglandEth5109

5’11, 145 lbs, Class of 2027

Wilson Central HS, TN

Ethan brings a calm, composed presence to the floor that instantly steadies his team. His game is built on poise and pace, never rushed, always in control. A true shooter with a smooth release and consistent confidence, he can hurt defenses from deep or off the bounce. What separates Ethan from most guards his age is his playmaking ability. He reads defenses with maturity, makes the right pass, and knows how to create scoring chances not just for himself but for everyone around him. Coaches should know they can count on him to stay level-headed in any moment, staying calm when the game gets chaotic.

This past season, limited varsity minutes didn’t stop Ethan from working on his body and his growth. His height and strength took a major jump, giving him more physicality to go with his skill set. He focused on finishing, turning those crafty drives into complete plays, and stayed locked in on shot repetition and consistency. During AAU, he was a constant threat from the perimeter, averaging 3–4 threes per game while chasing a goal of four a night and a Pro16 Finals run. Next season, his eyes are set on taking Wilson Central past the region and into the state picture. Expect him to defend with pride, keeping his man in check, while providing a steady offensive punch built on confidence and touch.

Ethan’s mindset in adversity mirrors his game:l staying calm, focused, and team-first. When things get rocky, he’s the one pulling everyone together, talking, regrouping, and setting the tone. Off the court, he’s a typical teenager who loves video games and hanging out with friends, but when it’s time to compete, that laid-back nature flips into locked-in energy. The best coaching advice he’s ever received is, "Know your personnel and never play down to the competition".

I assess that Ethan’s skill set as a confident shooter and steady playmaker makes him a valuable asset to any college program looking for a composed guard who won’t rattle under pressure. His combination of shooting consistency, floor IQ, and unselfish decision-making will allow him to thrive in motion offenses and spacing systems that value smart guards who can stretch the floor and read plays efficiently.

As he continues to strengthen his body and elevate his finishing around the rim, Ethan’s potential will grow. His mental maturity already gives him an edge, and his relentless commitment to improving touch, timing, and confidence will only expand his role as a trusted leader on both ends of the floor. Expect him to evolve into a balanced, composed two-way guard with the ability to change momentum through calm execution and confident scoring. Stay tuned.