Hackney started 17 games for the Panthers, who have been one of the most consistent contenders in 2A for the last decade. His efficiency numbers weren’t great (30-23-58 shooting splits), but his command of the offensive attack with the ball in his hands was beyond his years, posting a 1.51 assist-to-turnover ratio and showcasing that he can not only create quality looks for his teammates, but himself as well. As he continues to develop physically and mentally, he’ll only become a more efficient, dynamic all-around offensive threat for Monticello.

Hayden Hackney gave Murray Elite some live during this battle when their team was having some offensive lows per se. There were some moments when Murray Elite just couldn’t get some shots to go and when that happened, Hackney stepped up and made some things happen so that they could stay within an arms reach down the stretch. This is a prospect with length and a sneaky athletic ability. Off the rip he gets to the hoop FAST and he know how to finish in and around contact. All in all, Hackney is going to grow into one heck of a player as a PG. He has some Tate Peterson in him and if you know who that is referring too, than you know how much of a compliment that truly is.

Similar to Grover but with bigger size, Hayden Hackney Hayden Hackney 6'2" | PG/SG Monticello | 2029 State IA was uber-confident in his jump shot all weekend. Able to watch him in the three-on-three portion of the day, I say Hackney launch from the mid-range and from deep with regularity, recognizing that he was hot from the field and taking every opportunity given to him.

With a long frame and a high release point, Hackney is a difficult guard for just about anyone in his age range, and if he keeps working on all facets of his game, could be one of the best players in his class going forward.

Hackney was a player who I had heard rave reviews about for his play throughout the summer with Monticello, and he may just slot into the starting lineup immediately as a freshman in command of the offense for the Panthers. He has a good frame that he uses to absorb contact around the rim, handles it well, is able to change speeds and he does a nice job keeping his defender off balance with his change of direction and handles. He contributes across the board, knocking down shots from deep, getting his teammates involved at a high level, is a solid rebounder, and a tough on-ball defender.