"The Visionary Playmaker Who Bends the Game to His Will"

Connor Balwanz

@balwanzconnor

6’2, 175lbs, Class of 2027

North Marion HS, WV

AAU: WV Reign coached by Ronnie Nuzum

Connor steps onto the court like a conductor ready to orchestrate every moving piece around him. His game is built on vision, control, and an instinctive feel that makes him one of the most electric young guards in West Virginia. He dictates pace with confidence, reads defenses with maturity beyond his years, and creates advantages that ripple through an entire possession. What separates Connor is the way he combines poise with aggression. He can explode into three-level scoring, thread needles with crafty playmaking, or slow everything down until the perfect window opens. He plays with that calm fire point guards dream of, always in command, always connected, always keeping his team locked in. Coaches know they are getting a true floor leader who values winning plays more than highlight plays, yet still brings enough flair to wake up any gym.

Connor’s numbers last season were 14 points, 4 assists, and 4 rebounds a game while running the show as an underclassman. His improvement since then has been fueled by weight room work emphasized by Coach Nuzum, stronger finishing, and a sharper focus on shooting consistency. His biggest improvement, however, was in leadership, especially when injuries hit the team and he had to elevate his voice, presence, and decision-making. He learned how to carry pressure the right way, how to anchor the floor in tight games, and how to use adversity for growth. PGC Point Guard College added another layer to his mentality, teaching him to control what he can control, respond with composure, and keep his energy disciplined. Every conference matchup lights a fire in him, especially when the building is packed and momentum swings on every possession.

The offseason brought weight room progress, faster processing, and a stronger command of pace. Now, as a preseason top state guard ranked number 4 in the Class of 2027 and labeled a WV player of the year candidate, Connor steps into the season embracing that privilege, not running from it, he thrives on big defensive plays that turn into fast break opportunities and loves playing in rhythm with a talented team hungry for a winning year. His drive is fueled by both competitiveness and gratitude. He appreciates the quality coaching he receives during school ball and AAU, and he understands how much those layers of guidance have shaped his game. His drive is fueled by both competitiveness and gratitude. He appreciates the quality coaching he receives during school ball and AAU, and he understands how much those layers of guidance have shaped his game. He also carries a deep appreciation for his trainers, Justin Anderson and Nate Smith, whose steady guidance and belief in him have played a meaningful role in his growth and development.

Connor also has the recruitment pedigree to match his production with an offer from Bethany College and interest from Baldwin Wallace University, Mary Baldwin, Waynesburg, and Wesleyan. This summer’s elite prospect camps sharpened his understanding of different systems and cultures, and he especially enjoyed the atmosphere at Mary Baldwin and the high-tempo flow at West Liberty. His goal is to find a program where he can grow, compete, and make an impact right away.

Off the court, Connor loves being around family, spending time at the lake, diving into film study, and collecting sports cards. It is that balance of joy, curiosity, and work ethic that fuels the complete player he is steadily becoming.

I assess that Connor’s blend of vision, pace control, scoring versatility, and situational awareness instantly elevates any college program. He is a true point guard who values the responsibility of running a team. His ability to stabilize possessions, create scoring opportunities, and lift the play of those around him makes him a perfect fit for coaches seeking a guard who elevates an entire system. College staff will appreciate his leadership, maturity, and the way he embraces coaching and structure. His defensive competitiveness and anticipation also allow him to create easy transition opportunities that shift momentum.

Expect Connor to continue rising as one of West Virginia’s most complete young prospects. As he adds more strength and sharpens shooting consistency, his game will expand in every direction. His confidence as a leader will only grow, especially in tight games where his poise becomes an anchor. With continued development and the right college fit, Connor has the potential to become an early impact guard who operates with high IQ, spirit, and total command of the floor. The foundation is already there. The rise is only beginning. Stay tuned.