Cook didn’t get off to a super hot start against Bridgton, but he had a monster second half that helped New Hampton come out on top. The 6-foot-8 big man just looks more explosive and stronger every time I watch him, and his three point shot continues to improve. He hit multiple big shots from the perimeter in the second half and also did his work in the paint offensive rebounding. Cook finished off his offensive masterclass with a mid range shot that essentially sealed the game. He was clutch when New Hampton needed him most and is playing his best basketball at the right time. Will he be able to handle Quinn Costello Quinn Costello 6'10" | PF Newman School | 2026 State #30 Nation New E and the Newman front line, though? We’ll see.

I don’t know how much weight Cook has lost since last year, but he’s a lot lighter on his feet and looks quicker, more athletic, and faster. The 6-foot-8 forward has special body control and finishing touch near the hoop, and I’m always surprised by his ability to be a consistent low-post scorer, even against bigger and stronger players like the CATS’ front line. Cook can pass it and handle it, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he continues to showcase some more outside shooting as the season goes on. He’ll be a very interesting player to watch next season at Richmond, and I could see him having a pretty significant role.

Cook had a relatively quiet first half, but he ticked up his aggressiveness in the second half and was a big reason for New Hampton’s victory. The 6-foot-8 forward can be passive at times, but when he has his mind set on attacking the rim and using his physicality to put defenders under the hoop, he’s quite difficult to stop. He has strength, wiggle, and really nice finishing touch, so he’s a tough cover for opposing bigs of any size. He can also play at the top of the key and operate as a dribble handoff and screening hub; his passing instincts are super useful here. Cook is committed to Richmond next season, and I could imagine him having a pretty significant impact in year one, especially if he continues the development he’s made from last season to this one moving forward.

Cook has improved steadily since the first time I saw him play about 2 years ago. The 6-foot-8 forward is phenomenal in the post; he has nice footwork, great finishing chops, and a lot of craft. He went AT multiple high major bigs and scored on them successfully during NEBL session 1. He also handled the ball well for his size and makes some really heady passes out of the short roll. Cook is committed to Richmond and projects as someone who should be able to get on the court immediately next season. Some added outside shooting ability would be really huge for him, because everything else about his game suggests he can play on the perimeter. 

Cook is a do-it-all forward who consistently impacts the game in every area. He scores efficiently, rebounds with purpose, and makes smart passing reads that keep the offense flowing. Defensively, he uses his versatility and effort to guard multiple positions and make timely plays. His all-around contributions translate directly to winning and elevate everyone around him.

Chad Cook Chad Cook 6'8" | PF New Hampton | 2026 State New E impressed with his skill in the interior. He used his big body well on drives to the basket, and showed off his soft touch in the mid range. He also showed off some swift passes in the half court at the top of the key.

Cook impressed with his ability to score the basketball inside. He has a really smart shot selection and doesn’t look to force things. His loudest skillset is his ability to find others with his passing. He is a quarterback like a quarterback on the block dropping dimes to shooters and connecting with slashers. He does a nice job screening which allows for his guards to navigate to different spots off the bounce. His play over the weekend was rewarded by a few scholarships from low major programs.

A 6’8″ forward from the New Hampton School, Cook continued his spring ascension by putting together multiple impressive performances this weekend. A versatile offensive prospect, he stood out on the defensive end of the floor on Sunday. He’s done a lot of work to improve his body and, as a result, has increased athleticism, burst, and lateral mobility. These improvements, when combined with his high basketball IQ, allow him to make an impact guarding in ball screens, on the low block, and while cleaning up on the glass. Offensively, he continues to show the ability to score with his back to the basketball, can roll or pop after setting screens, and intitiates offense from the top of the key, high post, and short corners. His recruitment gained steemed after his performance this weekend, leading to more low-major offers and mid-major interest.

Cook is a skilled forward with a versatile game that allows him to impact the floor in multiple ways. He can operate effectively in the post, using touch and footwork to score inside. Around the perimeter, he’s comfortable handling the ball, knocking down shots, and making smart plays. Cook’s blend of size, skill, and adaptability makes him a tough matchup for defenders.

Cook has really impressed me with his ability to man the paint for Middlesex Magic this UAA season. The 6-foot-6 forward is a bit undersized for the center position, but that’s what he plays for the Magic and he does so quite effectively. He seems to have gotten stronger since the high school season, which allows him to guard opposing centers who are taller and longer. Offensively, he acts as a top-of-the-key hub that can play the dribble hand-off game and make plays for himself and his teammates. I was really impressed with some of the passes he made to backcutters and baseline cutters. He should have a larger offensive role on New Hampton next season.