Brayden Cox '22 Recruiting Profile

Hitting the game-winning three against our rival team during my sophomore year has been the most thrilling experience in my high school career. The most impactful moments, however, have been the times I have failed. I started playing basketball in sixth grade with high hopes, but minimal skills. At the time, I was a star on my football team, so being a mediocre basketball player was extremely frustrating. I was usually the shortest player on the basketball court, and this disadvantage caused me to be shy with low self-esteem.

I have always been one to give 100% effort, never settling for “just good enough.” So, I spent all of my free time studying basketball, watching game film, and practicing fundamentals. I had to practice longer and work harder than any of my teammates to match their level of play. I lived and breathed basketball, and my dedication finally became evident on the court. As a freshman, I was given a starting position on the Tyler HEAT Varsity Basketball team. I have held a starting position all four years of high school. 

As a sophomore, I was honored to be named Team Captain of the Varsity team. I have continued to lead our Varsity team as Captain ever since then. This is not a role I have taken lightly. I know God has gifted me with leadership skills, so I take that responsibility very seriously. As a leader of my team, I hope to be an example in everything I do. Whether my teammates see me thanking the referees after a game, taking the blame on a missed play, recognizing and encouraging everyone on the team, showing respect to our coaches, other adults, and peers, or picking up trash in the stands after a game, everything I do is being watched by those around me. I want to live a life of integrity, which means I will always strive to do the right thing - whether others are watching or not.

Many underestimate me because of my size, and I have had to overcome those doubts my entire basketball career. Without feeling the need to prove myself, it is possible that I may have never conditioned my body to consistently record a vertical jump that ranks in the top 1% of athletes in the world. I have dunked in basketball practice, and whether or not I ever dunk in a game, I have the ability to jump high enough to shoot over tall defenders or grab rebounds.

It is my dream to play college basketball. I will never stop learning this game or training my body to improve my skills. I will continue to pursue excellence in every aspect of my life, especially in sports and academics. I know I will be an asset to any team who is willing to overlook my height and believe in my heart, dedication, and commitment to being the best player and teammate on the court.