-The last but not least of standout Thrill performers in a win over Team Spartans, Branch continues to prove capable of filling a role as a pick n pop wing prospect that also has the skill to put the ball on the floor when needed. Branch hit a baseline jumper off the catch, knocked down a contested short jumper after he snagged the offensive rebound in the pain, splashed an open 3 from the top of the key in the secondary break, and had a well-timed cut from the corner to the rim that led to an and1 finish at the rim. You can tell that he’s still getting his legs under him as a prospect that continues to grow, but the flashes really stand out as a wing that has a chance to make a name for himself at the national level.

Branch is someone who thrived at the junior varsity level to a point where on multiple occasions, forced us to arrive a few hours before the varsity tip-off and track his development. He poses good size for a wing along with a fluidity as a scorer that very pleasing to watch. He gets to spot in minimal bounces, covers ground on his rips and can rise over his defender in the mid-range while converting at an efficient clip. The plus length, understanding in how to score from different levels and the defensive upside all went into his 8-spot rise into the top-35. He’ll be one to monitor this spring/summer with Team Thrill 15s.

-Yet another high upside frontcourt prospect at MSJ, I expect Branch to carve out a role at the varsity level if he turns in a productive spring and summer of development on the circuit with Thrill. Branch possesses a ton of long term upside as a great mover at his size that can put the ball on the floor or knock down pick n pop jumpers. Defensively he can play 3-5 at the 15u level and will give Thrill some lineup versatility as a player that can man the paint or guard on the wings.

Branch is one of the JV standouts in the Baltimore area who cannot be overlooked. The size, shooting and frame are all foundational pillars that you see in players who eventually blossom valuable rotational guys on the varsity level. He’s been dominant in spurts on both ends not only scoring, but also protecting the rim a high rate for a guard/wing. It’s shown not only the competitive motor that he brings, but the instincts and timing as a weakside defender who can see his man and ball at all times. It’s always good to see players take advantage of the confidence and development at the JV level before diving into the deep end that the varsity level in the BCL offers. I’d bet on Branch being one that benefits off this path pretty significantly when all is said and done.