With Braden’s height, he drew a lot of defensive attention, but he handled it well throughout the game. Operating at times with his back to the basket, he often saw quick double teams, and occasionally even three defenders, collapse on him once he touched the ball. In those situations, he either made the right pass out of pressure or used his length, wingspan, and soft touch to finish around the rim. He also showed some comfort putting the ball on the floor and stepping out for a shot or two away from the paint. On the glass, he absorbed plenty of contact but continued to battle and compete for position. He capped off his performance with a putback slam.

Braden has been having a really solid AAU season and it would not shock me to see some scholarship offers come his way in July. Playing alongside Austin Davie Austin Davie 6'6" | PF Western Reserve Academy | 2029 State OH should help get eyes on the big man during the scholastic live period in June. An active rebounder with a good motor, Elam has a lot of potential and I could see him getting offers at the NAIA/D2 level in the coming months.

Elam was a major stock-riser this weekend at the Bill Hensley Memorial Run N Slam. The 6’8″ forward hit a couple of face-up jump shots for Darius Garland P32 17u and used his size to score inside against smaller defenders. His overall versatility as a skilled front court piece was impressive. Definitely one to keep an eye on out of Campbell County High School in Kentucky.

Earlier this month, Braden picked up an offer from Kentucky Christian University, a well-earned opportunity given his continued development. At the P32 League in Wisconsin, Elam averaged 11 points, eight rebounds, and four blocks while recording two double-doubles, showcasing his impact on both ends. At 6’8″, he was a force inside with his defense and rebounding, while also contributing offensively with solid footwork, a good feel around the rim, and the ability to play with his back to the basket, using effective moves to create scoring opportunities.

Elam is coming off a strong Junior campaign for the Camels and is a promising low post prospect who has flashed the ability to step out and shoot a little bit as well. Braden has a big frame with room to add muscle as he fills out once he stops growing. A high ceiling prospect, Elam could have a big AAU season and find himself on the radar for colleges by the end of the summer.

Capable of putting up a double-double nearly any night out, Elam enters the rankings at 139 and has the potential to keep climbing. Braden is an efficient scorer on the low block, shooting nearly 60% from the field. An abysmal free throw shooter, if Elam can improve his free throw percentages (currently 28% on the year) then he should be averaging 12+ points per game. If he doesn’t start shooting better from the line, teams may employ the “Hack-A-Elam”.