Recruiting Report: Brennan Ralph (2018)
Brennan Ralph, a class of 2018 wing at Annapolis High School, has caught our eye multiple times since we first saw him during the Maryland State Finals. The 6’3 rising senior scored 16 on the eventual state champs, Perry Hall. In recent weeks at the BSN Summer League, Ralph has continued to build on his initially strong first impression.
“I am a shoot first type of player, but I look to attack off the dribble and either score, get fouled, or kick it out. I play good individual and team defense. I am aggressive, and hustle in all parts of the game,” Ralph explained. “One thing I do that most people don’t see is my work ethic. Although I’m not the fastest player in the world, I am always hustling and working to make an impact on every play. There is never a play when I don’t sprint back on defense or take an offensive possession off. I am alert and involved in every play.”
Ralph is not playing AAU this summer, but has set a goal to return to Xfinity for his senior year. He is part of a dynamic back court at Annapolis alongside talented lead guard Christian Jones. Ralph mentioned some of the things he’s working on at the moment, and what his next focus for improvement is.
“I have improved most in my ability to get shots of quicker. I have a faster release then I did last year. I am more successful in getting my feet set and ready before the ball comes. It has led to more opportunities for me to score and has forced defenders to play tighter defense. I have also become more aggressive in attacking the rim,” said Ralph. “Although I have been improving in this aspect, I want to be more of a threat in driving to the basket. If I can develop a stronger game of getting to the rim I can cause defenders to respect it, therefore giving me more opportunities to get shots off. This is something that I worked on particularly during summer league by being more aggressive in attacking the basket off of the dribble.”
Ralph is clearly an intelligent player. He knows what it takes to be a good one, and is working hard to be. Not only is Ralph a standout on the court, but he also takes care of business in the classroom.
“In school I am doing very well. At Annapolis high school I’m in the IB program and have a 4.6 GPA so far through the first 3 years,” Ralph stated. “The only schools that have shown big interest of me is Hood college and Saint Mary’s college of Maryland. Montclair State University, Roanoke, Queens university of Charlotte, and Shepherd university have shown minor interest.”
What can this well-rounded young man bring to a college program?
“I can bring a lot to a college program. I can give a college program I consistent shooter that can spread the floor and either make plays or open up plays for others. I can also bring an intelligent basketball IQ as well as dedicated commitment to the program.”