"Trigger Confidence: The Sharpshooter Who Turns Pressure into Points"

Hale Demaree

@hale_demaree

6’2, 165lbs, Class of 2026

Sealy HS, TX

Hale is a lethal sharpshooter with a high basketball IQ and a game that continues to evolve with every possession. He’s equally comfortable creating off the dribble or spotting up for a catch-and-shoot three, making him a dynamic scoring threat at all times. Whether spacing the floor or attacking a closeout, Hale thrives with pace, precision, and poise, never rattled, always ready. What separates him from the average guard is his efficiency and feel for the game. He rarely turns the ball over, makes smart reads under pressure, and forces defenders to extend well beyond the arc due to his deep range. Coaches can expect a confident, composed competitor who doesn’t just knock down shots, he makes them when they matter most.

This past season, Hale averaged 12.2 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals per game while shooting a blistering 40% from three. But the real story was in how he stepped into a bigger role. No longer just a catch-and-shoot threat, he evolved into a versatile scorer at all three levels, creating for himself and others while commanding the attention of defenses because of his unlimited range behind the arc. His biggest improvement was in his confidence, learning to trust his skillset, take risks, and expand his offensive arsenal. This offseason, he’s focused on elevating his ball-handling to take on more on-ball duties, becoming stronger in the weight room, and growing into a defender who can guard 1 through 5. His sights are locked on leadership and impact, not just on paper, but in how he controls the game.

Hale plays on the Invictus Red Storm in the NXTPRO Puma circuit, and he’s circling May 16–18 in Wichita for the Puma Live tournament, a major proving ground during the live period where college coaches will be in full attendance. He’s ready to show he can compete at a national level and elevate his game under the spotlight. This AAU season, his goals are to stay consistent from deep, improve all-around, and let coaches across the country see the full range of his abilities.

Next high school season, Hale is coming in with momentum and motivation. After helping lead Sealy to the second round of the Texas State Playoffs, he’s determined to build on last year’s team success and push even further. Personally, he’s aiming to expand on his first-team all-district honors, raise every statistical category, and emerge as the leader his team can rely on in every situation. His mindset is steady, rooted in past accomplishments, and a belief in what's next.

What fires him up most is the moment, especially when the game is on the line. Hitting a clutch shot in front of a packed gym is where Hale thrives, and that energy pushes him to rise every time. When facing adversity, he locks in, calms down, and leans on preparation. He trusts what he’s built. The best coaching advice he’s ever received is "Have confidence in yourself". It’s that self-belief that fuels his game, unlocks his leadership, and sets the foundation for every shot, every play, and every win.

I assess that Hale’s deep shooting range, balanced decision-making, and ever-expanding skill set make him a serious weapon for any college system. His ability to play both on and off the ball, shoot under pressure, and create in the clutch gives him the tools to contribute early and often. He’s dependable, disciplined, and decisive, the kind of player programs can build around.

Expect Hale to keep climbing. His continued growth in ball handling, physicality, and confidence is setting him up for a massive junior season. With his fearless shot-making and growing leadership, he’s developing into a complete guard with real next-level potential. Hale doesn’t shy away from pressure but rises in it. And that’s what makes him dangerous. Stay tuned.