Prospect Watch: Brandon Bassham (2017)
Class of 2017 forward Brandon Bassham of Troy has watched his game continue to evolve over the course of his very productive career. The 6’4″ Bassham began his career as a low post player who did much of his damage…
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Continue ReadingClass of 2017 forward Brandon Bassham of Troy has watched his game continue to evolve over the course of his very productive career.
The 6’4″ Bassham began his career as a low post player who did much of his damage in the lane. As he heads into his senior year, Bassham has developed into an excellent all-around player who can impact a game in many ways.
“My coaches have had me in the post since I was a freshman,” Bassham said. “Now, they are letting me get out and do a little bit of everything. They have helped me become a better shooter who can also drive to the basket.”
Bassham’s junior year totals were a clear example of how much his all-around game has developed. He averaged 16.3 points and 8.6 rebounds a game. He made 20 of his 50 3-pointers for a 40 percent rate after shooting very few of them as a sophomore. He also averaged 2.5 assists, 1.5 steals and 2.2 blocks as the Trojans finished with a 15-12 record.
“Being on the perimeter now is just like being in the post,” Bassham said. “I’m very comfortable in both places. I still want to work on my ball handling and perimeter shooting.”
The highlight of Bassham’s junior year came via the 3-point shot on January 21 when he made a buzzer-beating trey to give the Trojans a 64-62 victory over visiting Francis Howell. Bassham dribbled the length of the court and pulled up from 25 feet and sank the game-winner, touching off a big celebration on Troy’s home court.
“That win felt really good for all of us,” he said. “All of us were excited about that game because we beat a good team on our home court.”
With his desire to improve on his perimeter game before his senior year, Bassham decided to forego playing grassroots basketball during the summer. Instead, he spent his time in the gym working on his game.
“I just wanted to stay in the gym and work with my team,” Bassham said. “I want to help our team win as much as possible next year.”