Prospect Watch: Brad Hailey (2018)
Class of 2018 forward Brad Hailey of Stanberry made a name for himself during his junior season.
As a sophomore in 2016, the 6’5″ Hailey averaged 10 points and played alongside big brother Daniel Hailey, who led Stanberry to the Class 1 state championship and an undefeated season.
“It was an unreal feeling and I will never forget that season,” Brad Hailey said. “It was just amazing to be a part of it.”
With Daniel Hailey having moved on to the collegiate level, Brad Hailey moved into the spotlight and led the Bulldogs to another successful season. As a junior, Hailey averaged 18.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 2.0 steals and 2.1 blocked shots to lead Stanberry to a 23-5 record and a district championship at the Class 2 level. Hailey earned Class 2 All-State honors for his efforts.
“It was a big adjustment for me, but I was able to take to the new role,” Hailey said. “I just tried to do the best I can.”
At the Class 2 level, Hailey has developed into a dominant force because of his size and versatility. He is a strong offensive player in the low post, but he also has the ability to step outside and drive to the basket and knock down perimeter jumpers. His go-to move is the step-back fadeaway jumper off one leg, a la Dirk Nowitzki. He started using the fadeway when he was in grade school while playing against his brother and the other older guys.
“When I was younger, I was smaller than my brother, so I had to find a way to shoot over him,” he said. “That’s what I did and I have stuck with it because it works for me.”
Hailey has been playing summer grassroots basketball with the KC Premiere 17U team. He has been playing 17U ball for the past two summers and has more than held his own. Playing at a small school has given Hailey added motivation to go out and compete against top players from around the Midwest region and the country.
“Everyone kind of looks down on Class 1 and Class 2 schools,” he said. “I’m here to show people that there are great athletes at every school, regardless of size.”