Top-40 sophomore Brandon Gardner talks recruitment
Brandon Gardner is ranked amongst the Top-40 sophomore prospects in America. One of the most athletic four-men in the 2023 class, Gardner is a 6-foot-7 prospect out of Gray Collegiate in South Carolina. He’s proven himself already as a high-major recruit and he holds ten scholarship offers which include Wake Forest, Clemson, Illinois, Winthrop, and others.
The reason I along with many others are so high on this prospect, well, he’s quite the athlete already. Has tons of size but with added versatility, his ability to run up and down the floor is an issue for opposing teams. But, I believe a reason why people must invest in him is that he’s working on his perimeter game which if he pattens down, could make him even scarier.
Not only is he an exceptional prospect on the floor but off the court, he really defines what it means to be a student-athlete. Gardner holds a 4.2 GPA at Gray Collegiate and one area he looks at while being recruited is the academic aspect of things.
Gardner discussed his recruitment with Stockrisers.com. He discussed programs involved, new schools interested, broke down some schools, and gave insight on his game.
Which programs have extended you a scholarship offer?
“Illinois, Wake Forest, Wichita State, SC State, Ole Miss, USC Upstate, Winthrop, Clemson, DePaul, and Georgetown.”
How about interest?
“Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kansas.”
Discuss Illinois, they were the first program to extend you an offer.
“Illinois was the first to offer. They have been consistent and mainly talk about how much they like my game. Coach Antigua talked about their current roster and how their recruiting strategy helped them become one of the best teams in the nation. Illinois is definitely a team I will be keeping my eyes on.”
What about one of the local schools, Wake Forest?
“Wake Forest came with a good pitch. Me and Coach McKie talked a lot about South Carolina basketball being that he is one of the SC greats. They also like my game and just really talked about how I would fit in with them. I can’t wait to visit their campus and see what it’s really like.”
How about your most recent offer from Georgetown and Patrick Ewing?
“Georgetown was a big offer. Being able to talk to a legend like Coach Patrick Ewing was a great experience. We just really talked about life. He likes to joke just like me. With Georgetown’s history, I’m definitely ready to visit their campus also.”
What are you looking for in a college program?
“My family and I are looking for a school that will display my talent, but also provide the development I need to make it professionally. High-majors present unique opportunities for obvious reasons, but some of the smaller schools and HBCU’s have some great basketball cultures, coaches and networking opportunities also.”
Breakdown your game.
“My game is simple. I am willing to do whatever it takes to help my teammates be successful and to help my team win. I primarily work close to the basket, where I love dunking on my opponents and rebounding. I can also shoot from the three and midrange. I can be a mismatch for other teams at times with my ability to put the ball on the floor.”
Season expectations?
“My expectations for the high school season are to average 15 points, 10 rebounds, and five blocks, win another state championship, be recognized as an all-state player, and help my teammates shine to boost their recruitment. If scouts are watching me, they need to see what my teammates can do also.”