"The Silent Storm: Buckets, Boards, and a Relentless Edge"

Lars Erickson

@balloutlars

IG: @Yk_lars23

6 ft, 175 lbs, Class of 2026

Raoul Wallenberg HS, CA

Lars is a savvy combo guard who can bring the rain from deep with a smooth touch, attack off the bounce, and finish strong at the rim. He plays with a natural rhythm and understanding of the game that allows him to control tempo without forcing the action. His handles keep defenders guessing, and when he sees an opening, he takes it with confidence. Whether it is pulling up from beyond the arc or slicing through traffic, Lars finds ways to produce. He is not the flashiest player in the gym, but he has a way of getting it done at a high level every single time he steps on the floor.

Defensively, he creates problems. Active hands, quick reactions, and a strong swagger allow him to disrupt passing lanes and turn defense into instant offense. He competes on the boards like someone bigger than his 6 ft frame, pulling down boards in traffic and refusing to be pushed around. Add in his court vision and ability to drop timely dimes, and it becomes clear that his impact goes far beyond scoring. A high IQ and nonstop motor allow him to stuff the stat sheet and impact winning in multiple ways.

The numbers back up the growth. Last season, he averaged 9 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game. This year, he elevated that production to 17 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game. That jump did not happen by accident. His biggest improvements have been mental toughness and consistency. He plays through contact, through pressure, and through moments when the game gets tight. Now his focus shifts toward increasing his athleticism and extending his shooting range even deeper as he prepares for the college level.

Lars has clear goals. He wants to earn All League honors and bring a league championship back to Raoul Wallenberg. The fire that fuels him shows up most in big moments, especially after an and 1 or when clawing back from a deficit. That competitive edge rises when the lights get bright, and the game is on the line. When facing adversity, he trusts his work, the reps, leads with confidence, and keeps moving forward.

This season presented a unique obstacle. A public school teacher strike in San Francisco shut down schools, games, and team practices during the final stretch of the regular season. Three games were lost, including his senior night. Instead of letting frustration win, Lars went to the gym every day, working on his game and bringing along whatever teammates he could find. While others waited, he prepared. Now the focus is locked in on the Feb 20 playoff matchup, turning disappointment into motivation.

On the recruiting front, Lars holds an offer from Paul Smith’s College in New York. As a Class of 2026 guard who continues to show steady growth, his best basketball is still ahead of him.

I assess that Lars is a productive combo guard who impacts winning with skill, intelligence, and competitive drive. His jump in production from 9 to 17 points per game shows steady development, and his rebounding and playmaking numbers highlight his all-around value. He defends with purpose and competes beyond his size, making him a dependable two-way presence.

Moving forward, expect Lars to continue expanding his range, improving his explosiveness, and embracing leadership at an even higher level. His work ethic during the strike revealed maturity and dedication that translate well to the next level. As he prepares for college, his ability to score, rebound, and facilitate from the guard spot will make him an immediate asset in the right program. Stay tuned.