Zander Jensen
@zanderjensen_
IG: z2trimm
6'4", 180 lbs., Class of 2027
Redwood HS, CA
AAU basketball for Jalen Green Elite last year and now playing for Clutch Elite
Zander is a dynamic guard with an electric blend of size, skill, and explosiveness that makes him a nightmare for defenders. Zander's length and athleticism allow him to blow past defenders with crafty, shifty moves while using his sneaky speed to create space and attack the rim. Zander’s ability to score at all three levels is deadly, whether it’s a silky stroke from deep, an explosive pull-up in the mid-range, or a fearless finish at the rim through contact. Zander plays with an edge, using his strength to power through defenders while staying light on his feet, making him a versatile and dangerous scoring threat. On the defensive end, his length, quickness, and relentless energy make him a lockdown on-ball defender and a major presence on the boards. His high basketball IQ and court vision allow him to control the game, dropping dimes at the perfect moment to set up teammates. Every time he steps on the floor, he brings a mix of finesse, power, and grit that sets him apart.
As a freshman, Zander put up 16.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game while shooting an impressive 46% from three. Zander's biggest improvement from last year has been his athleticism helping him become more springy, quicker, and even more of a defensive weapon. His leadership has also grown, stepping up vocally and making sure his presence is felt beyond just his scoring ability. That development helped him rack up a jaw-dropping list of awards: 1st Team All-League, runner-up for league MVP, ranked the No. 1 freshman in California’s Central Valley, named Freshman 1st Team All-State by Cal-Hi Sports, and a Freshman All-American by MaxPreps. Zander also made waves as a standout player at the Pangos All-American West Camp, solidifying his name among elite competition. In one of his biggest rivalry matchups against Bakersfield Christian, he thrived in the high-energy atmosphere, feeding off the competition and proving he belongs in the biggest moments.
What fuels Zander the most is the fire of a close game, knowing his team has the fight to win and putting everything on the line for those around him. Zander doesn’t back down from adversity, choosing to step up as a leader and work through challenges with his teammates. Through injuries, obstacles, and tough lessons, he has relied on his family and faith to keep him grounded and focused. The best piece of advice he’s ever received is, "Be a voice, not an echo," and it has become Zander’s approach on and off the court. He doesn’t follow the crowd; he leads, and that leadership will only continue to grow as he climbs the ranks.
Growing up surrounded by basketball, Zander has always understood what it takes to play at the highest level. With his father, uncle, and grandfather all established coaches, the game has been ingrained in him from the start. But his hunger for improvement is what truly separates him as he embraces the grind, knowing that every game, every practice, and every rep is another step toward his goal of playing DI basketball.
I assess that Zander’s combination of size, athleticism, and skill makes him a problem for defenders at every level. Zander brings the rare ability to play physically while maintaining fluidity in his movement. His explosiveness and craftiness off the dribble make him nearly impossible to contain, and with that lethal shooting from deep, defenders can’t afford to give him space. That's when his ability to get downhill and draw fouls adds another weapon to his offense. On the defensive end, his size and quickness allow him to guard multiple positions, making him a versatile piece for any team. But the biggest factors that make him a high-impact player at the next level are his relentless drive and leadership. Zandee's improved athleticism, vocal presence, and defensive intensity show that he’s not just an offensive that but a complete two-way player. As he continues to strengthen his ball-handling and tighten his game even more, there’s no doubt he will be a must-see TV with the ability to take over any game. A player with his mindset, skill set, and physical tools is a game-changer, and any program looking for a fearless, high-IQ guard with explosive scoring ability should have their eyes on him.
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