"The Dream Crusher: Aerial Punisher with Game-Changing Power"

Cooper Knowles

@knowles_2

IG: @knowles_22

6’9, 195lbs, Class of 2026

West Hancock HS, IL

Cooper is a rim-protecting wrecking ball with a mean streak above the rim and a mission to crush dreams every time he steps on the court. At 6’9 with spring-loaded hops, freakish timing, and instinctual shot-blocking ability, he’s a defensive nightmare, swatting shots with either hand and altering everything near the paint. His presence alone changes games, but when he goes airborne and punishes the rim with a poster jam, the whole gym feels it. He tests the air up there with momsterious lob finished and rim rocking follow up jams. Cooper doesn’t just block shots, he erases confidence. He doesn’t just dunk, he explodes for ruthless finishes. He’s not only explosive, but unselfish, and plays with an energy that electrifies his teammates and devastates his opponents.

Averaging 13 points, 8 rebounds, and an jaw-dropping 6 blocks per game, Cooper’s impact on both ends is undeniable. His biggest improvement this season came in his aggressiveness, attacking the rim with more force and finishing stronger through contact. That physical edge, mixed with his vertical dominance, has unlocked another level of his game. Now, he’s elevating his perimeter skillset, working on ball-handling, outside shooting, and lateral quickness to become a more versatile two-way threat. Playing for Mid Pro Academy this offseason, Cooper is focusing on competing against high-level talent and developing his perimeter game to match his interior dominance. All eyes will be on him at the Recruit Look Live Period in Atlanta this July and the Tournament of Champions over Thanksgiving, two big stages where his rim-wrecking reputation is set to grow even louder.

Cooper thrives off big blocks and thunderous dunks, they fire him up and flip the momentum in an instant. When facing adversity, he stays grounded, playing his role and doing whatever it takes for team success. His coaches have kept it simple: have fun and lock into the role that makes the team better. Off the court, Cooper keeps it calm with hunting, fishing, and golfing when he’s not turning arenas upside down.

I assess that Cooper’s elite shot-blocking, vertical explosiveness, and rim-running ability are tools every college coach should want in their frontcourt. His ability to defend the paint, shift momentum with highlight plays, and now expand his game beyond the block makes him a major weapon in any system.

Cooper’s potential is enormous. As he continues to improve his perimeter game and tighten his footwork, he’s on track to become a two-way force with high-major potential. He’s already a dream crusher at the rim, and with continued growth, he’ll be a nightmare for anyone trying to stop him. Expect a fierce breakout season ahead, as we just may be catching an early glimpse of one of the best shotblockers in high school history. Locked, loaded, and ready to deliver. Cooper is already a problem, on the verge of becoming a two-way matchup nightmare. Stay tuned.