"The Mismatch Nightmare with Bounce and Defensive Chaos"

Averey Baucom

@Averey_Baucom

IG: @5averey5

6'6, 195lbs, Class of 2026

Colorado Prep, CO

Averey is a crafty bucket-getter with a relentless motor and the size to be a nightmare matchup from the wing. He’s a fierce and versatile scoring option who can make it off the catch, break defenders down off the bounce, and finish strong through contact or above the rim when given an inch. He’s a natural scorer with a scorer’s mindset, but it’s his high-level reads and unselfish playmaking that make him more than just a threat. He’s a complete offensive weapon. On defense, he’s a nightmare. He locks up 94 feet and willingly guards 1 through 4, making life miserable for opposing playmakers. That two-way intensity on both ends put him in rare space for a player his size.

Averey averaged 16 points, 7 boards, 3 assists, and 2 steals per game with ABC Prep this past season, and those numbers skyrocketed during major events. He averaged 23.5 points and 9 rebounds per game at PRO16’s Session 5 in Fort Collins, earning top performer honors. He also posted 20 points and 8 rebounds at Colorado Live SS against high-level talent and scored 16 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game at the Tarkanian Classic. But his biggest improvement wasn’t just in numbers; it was in how he performed consistently, embraced leadership, and trusted his mental game in big moments. Averey wants to continue elevating his above-the-rim finishing and shot-making, and he's dedicating this July to development rather than AAU play so he can lock in and become even more explosive.

He’s now attending Albuquerque Prep and focused on proving he belongs among the best. His goals for the offseason are to pick up multiple offers, build relationships with coaches, and showcase his growth on both ends of the court. Averey’s already showing major potential on defense, with coaches praising his ability to switch onto multiple positions and make stops. And offensively, he’s looking for opportunities to be the go-to guy who can carry a scoring load and punish defenders who try to take away the first option.

What drives him is the love of the game. A close, competitive battle brings out the fire in him, and he thrives in those moments. He handles adversity with maturity, turning to trusted voices like his father and his coaches, then going back to work. The best advice he’s ever received is leave your heart on the court. And that’s exactly what he does every time he laces up.

Off the court, Averey is grounded, loyal, and creative. He finds joy in being with his family, traveling, and building things, whether it's art, food, or something physical. That same creativity and drive shows up in his game, where his instincts, confidence, and competitive edge fuel everything he does.

I assess that Averey brings a rare mix of scoring instincts, positional size, and defensive switchability that translates at the next level. Coaches looking for a two-way wing who can stretch the floor, clamp down on defense, and lead by example should have him at the top of their board. His size, fire, and instincts for the game make him an immediate asset in any system.

With no offers yet and a chip on his shoulder, Averey is locked in for a breakout year. As his athleticism continues to rise and his scoring arsenal expands, expect him to grab the attention of college coaches across every level. He’s built for the next step and coming for it with everything he’s got. Stay tuned.