"The Rising Edge of a Relentless Competitor"

Cooper Burge

@CooperBurge16

IG: @coopburge

6’1, 150lbs, Class of 2026

Dawson Springs HS, KY

Cooper steps onto the floor with a style that blends confidence, toughness, and a versatile scoring touch that keeps defenders guessing. He is a mixed bag of danger on offense, able to get downhill to the basket, stop on a dime for the middy, pull back for a smooth three, or even take smaller defenders into the post. What really jumps out is how fierce he is on the boards and how willing he is to fight for every rebound or fifty-fifty ball. His game carries shades of a Jalen Brunson mold, paired with the DOGG-driven attitude that refuses to settle. When Cooper plays, coaches get a competitor who brings effort, dedication, and a determination to impact the game even when shots are not falling.

In limited AAU action this year, Cooper averaged around 15 points a game with multiple games over 20, giving a clear picture of the scoring spark he brings. His biggest improvement has been learning how to consistently get to his spots. Now, when he steps on the court, he knows exactly where he wants to go, and he is confident in either shooting it or finding the open teammate when the defense collapses. His focus this offseason is building a stronger body for the next level, tightening his defensive presence, and developing the type of on-ball pressure that reminds him of a Gary Payton-style defender.

Transferring into Dawson Springs was a major moment for him, but being welcomed with open arms by Coach Matt Fraliex made the transition feel like home. Cooper has already become an impact piece, creating memories and momentum with his new teammates. He is fired up for the challenge of facing Madisonville North Hopkins, and he feeds off the energy of his teammates as much as the fear he sees in the eyes of opponents who realize he is not backing down. Adversity never rattles him because he keeps that next-play mentality and lifts the people around him, believing that no one performs well when they carry unnecessary weight on their shoulders.

This season, he is focused on giving his best and chasing his dream of earning an opportunity to play college basketball anywhere he can. St. Louis Community College has already asked him to keep them updated, and he also has an interview with Rome City admissions, which he hopes will lead to further talks with their coach. He enjoys bowling to clear his mind and spending time with friends off the floor, keeping a healthy balance that fuels him for competition.

The best coaching advice he has ever received is, no matter what, no matter who, no matter where, never let anyone tell you that you cannot. Cooper plans to fight for everything he wants, including playing at the next level, and he is locked in on proving that he has what it takes.

I assess that Cooper’s versatile scoring touch, relentless competitiveness, and ability to impact possessions even when the offense slows give him real value for a college program. His commitment to getting to his spots, creating pressure with physical drives, and staying active on the boards makes him a dependable piece who can fit into multiple systems. His willingness to defend, bring energy, and fight for momentum-shifting plays provides a spark that coaches can trust in tight moments. With his mindset, effort, and team-driven approach, he offers a foundation that can strengthen a program looking for toughness and reliability.

Moving forward, Cooper is poised to become an all-around guard who elevates the people around him. His focus on adding strength, expanding his defensive presence, and sharpening his finishing consistency positions him for steady growth. As his confidence grows and his frame matures, he has the potential to be a player who controls pace, finds mismatches, and becomes a dependable two-way threat. His drive to play at the next level is genuine, and with continued work, he can earn a meaningful role and keep rising. Stay tuned.