The elite 2028 guard out of Kentucky was the best player on the floor in the Bruins narrow loss to United Prep on Thursday at the University of Evansville Team Camp. Big framed guard that was able to get the Bruins back into the game after a slow start with his scoring ability. Was able to knock down a couple transition 3’s while also attacking and getting all the way to the rim. High level defender that was able to pressure opposing guards, contain them in the half court and jump passing lanes turning defense into offense on several occasions.

Ballard got plenty of love in the 2029 article but Clay looked much improved since his Sophomore season ended. Baron finished above the rim with multiple dunks and was drilling shots from range. Expect him to earn his first D1 offers in the near future.

Clay is a high level passer who also shoots the ball at a high level. More of a facilitator than most point guards in the class, Baron can get paint touches and is also a capable defender that can switch and guard multiple positions.

Baron is an elite shooter at the point guard spot. The first thing that popped off to me when I saw Clay play live was his high level passing and obvious IQ. An improved athlete who recently started playing above the rim in games, Baron is likely the best player in this class who hasn’t received his first D1 offer yet.

One of the better “floor generals” in the class, Baron is at his best when he’s getting paint touches and distributing the basketball to teammates. Clay is a good shooter who can keep defenses honest from deep and is a good enough defender that he can limit penetration on the other end. Any coach who watches Baron over multiple games should appreciate all the ways that he impacts winning for his team.

Clay is the third guard I’m mentioning from this Phenom United 15 U squad because when you win by 30 points in a sweet 16 battle, you are going to be rewarded with some standout performers. Clay balances being a scorer and passer off the ball with a couple tough pull up jumpers and simple kickout passes. Clay also had a nice bucket off a curl cut from a designed play to get him the ball. One of the more talented off guards in the Louisville area, Clay has shown me he can make perimeter shots and has impressive physical tools to work with on the defensive end of the court.