They were slightly annoying, in a great way,” Branham told ESPN.” That was the greatest misconception in my recruitment through other coaches,” Branham said. Mary High School (Ohio)– the same high school LeBron James went to– Branham is ranked No. 28 in the ESPN 100 for 2021.” Branham has a sturdy frame and good positional size at the shooting guard area,” stated Paul Biancardi, ESPN nationwide recruiting director. Branham is Holtmanns 3rd ESPN 100 prospect in the 2021 recruiting class, joining point guard Meechie Johnson (No. 45) and power forward Kalen Etzler (No. 97).
Top-30 possibility Malaki Branham committed to Ohio State on Wednesday, giving Chris Holtmann and the Buckeyes their 3rd ESPN 100 prospect in the 2021 class.
Branham selected Ohio State over Alabama, Baylor, Louisville, Missouri, Marquette and Xavier. The Columbus, Ohio, native had officially gone to Ohio State, however also took informal journeys to Louisville and Xavier.
” I selected them since they didnt recruit me like an in-state kid. They were a little frustrating, in an excellent method,” Branham informed ESPN. “They never ever stopped calling and never ever got too comfortable. Theyve revealed me how I can flourish in their system with my adaptability at the guard position. They likewise think in my capabilities at the highest level.”
Long considered a prospect to remain house for school, Branham insisted he wasnt a lock for Ohio State and legally thought about the other schools on his final list.
” That was the biggest mistaken belief in my recruitment through other coaches,” Branham said. “My family will go anywhere to support me and I know if I wouldve gone throughout the globe that would still be there for me. It simply boiled down to best fit, and it was truly a tough option through the last schools that I had on my list.
” It wasnt easy at all, and I want everyone to comprehend that I truly took into consideration the schools that really recruited me and were serious about me belonging of their program.”
A 6-foot-5 shooting guard from St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (Ohio)– the same high school LeBron James went to– Branham is ranked No. 28 in the ESPN 100 for 2021. He slots in as the No. 5 gamer in the class at his position.
Branham balanced 18.0 points and 6.0 rebounds in four video games at the U16 Nike Peach Jam for NEO Tru Game last summertime, shooting 38.5% from 3-point variety.
” Branham has a sturdy frame and great positional size at the shooting guard spot,” stated Paul Biancardi, ESPN nationwide recruiting director. He plays under control during tense moments in the video game with a stoic expression. I like his ability to manage the ball in a pinch when required against pressure.
” However, he is best as a driver and rebounder. His drive video game is crafty and strong, as he takes contact well and finishes. He is a dedicated rebounder on both ends, shuts out on defense and crashes the offending glass.”
Branham is Holtmanns third ESPN 100 prospect in the 2021 recruiting class, joining point guard Meechie Johnson (No. 45) and power forward Kalen Etzler (No. 97). Both players committed in the spring or summertime of 2019. Ohio State likewise has Bucknell transfer Jimmy Sotos (11.5 PPG, 3.9 APG), who would have to remain next season if he does not get a waiver to play immediately.
” Im a winner,” Branham said. “Ive been a part of state championship groups and also had the advantage of partaking in the desirable EYBL Peach Jam.
