"The Silent Assassin: Fearless, Fast, and Built to Finish"

Jatyn Barkus

@jatynbarkus1

IG: @Jatyn.barkus

6’4, 177lbs, Class of 2026

Rhinelander HS, WI

Jatyn is a fearless competitor who thrives in high-pressure moments and turns adversity into fuel. A true defensive nightmare, he steps onto the court ready to clamp down the opposing team’s best player and make them earn every inch. Offensively, he’s a long and aggressive combo guard who doesn’t just attack the rim, he attacks with purpose, ruthless intent and power, hunting poster dunks and bullying defenders with strength and control. His game is electric, built on a smooth handles, fast decision-making, and a confident pull-up jumper both off the dribble and off the catch. He’s a crafty playmaker with great court vision, able to set up teammates for easy buckets while rarely turning the ball over. Jatyn plays with a relentless edge, and whether it’s breaking full-court pressure, dunking through contact, or firing up the crowd with a game-changing steal, he’s built to make statements.

This past season, Jatyn averaged 9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game while keeping his turnovers down to an elite 0.7 per game as a lead guard, earning Honorable Mention All-Conference. But in AAU, he has taken his game to another level, averaging 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. He’s become a force attacking the rim and finishing strong through contact, improving his footwork and strength while learning to play off two feet. He took pride in being assigned the opposing team’s top scorer all season, consistently forcing them into mistakes and averaging four or more turnovers per game. His biggest offseason focus has been elevating his jumper, raising his release, speeding up his mechanics, and working to become a more dangerous passer in tight windows. After two straight conference titles, he’s now aiming for a three-peat while proving Rhinelander belongs in every serious conversation. What drives him most is trash talk, live moments, and the chance to throw down a dunk that silences everyone. That chip on his shoulder is real, and so is the fire behind it.

This summer, Jatyn is lacing up with UTC Fire National 17U and looking to dominate every tournament on the calendar, especially the upcoming live periods. He’s looking for his first offer with full belief that he’s ready to make an impact at the next level, and he’s on a mission to disrupt the biggest names in the gym. He’s especially excited for the state tournament, a platform he’s determined to use to show all of Wisconsin just how real Rhinelander is. Off the court, Jatyn balances competition with connection, spending time with his girlfriend, his close circle of friends, and even mixing in some pickleball for fun. The fire doesn’t turn off, it just finds new ways to grow.

I assess that Jatyn’s two-way dominance, combined with his rare physicality and tight control as a combo guard, makes him a sneaky gem for college programs looking for toughness, leadership, and a spark plug that sets the tone. His ability to pressure full court, create offense, and lock in without turnovers gives him massive upside as a disruptor and creator.

Expect Jatyn's stock to keep rising. He’s still growing into his frame, elevating his shooting, and adding more confidence with every game. As his passing continues to improve and his jumper evolves, he’s going to become a complete weapon that can lead a team deep into the playoffs and leave a lasting impression on recruiters at every stop. Stay tuned.