Santiago Connell
@santiagoconnell
IG: @Santi.Connell
5’11, 155lbs, Class of 2027
Prior Lake HS, MN
Santiago Connell plays the game with an electric mix of skill, energy, and passion. As a dynamic three-level scorer, he thrives in every offensive situation, knocking down catch-and-shoot threes with confidence, rising up for smooth pull-up midranges, and attacking the rim with fearless determination. Santiago's relentless communication on the floor sets the tone for his team, ensuring that every possession is filled with intensity. Defensively, his fierce on-ball pressure disrupts opponents, making him a constant presence on both ends. While Santiago continues to improve his quickness and ball-handling, his ability to control the pace of a game and fuel his team with his vocal leadership makes him a force to be reckoned with.
This past high season, Santiago elevated his game to another level, averaging 16 points, 5 rebounds, and t
2 assists per gane. His biggest improvement was his confidence, playing freely, shooting without hesitation, and fully embracing his scoring ability. His offseason goals are to continue to improve his ball-handling under pressure, increase his quickness, and strengthen his help-side defense to become an even more complete two-way player. The most defining moment of his season came when Prior Lake stormed back from a 20-point deficit against Farmington, proving their resilience and securing the #1 seed. That fire to compete, no matter the odds, fuels Santiago’s drive to keep pushing his limits.
This AAU season, Santiago will play for MN Fury Sabin, where he’s ready to take his game to another level. With a goal of propelling his team into the top 10 in the state, he’s determined to make an impact every time he steps on the floor.s also locked in on boosting his individual ranking and catching the eyes of college coaches. One event he’s particularly excited for is the Prep Hoops Live tournament in Illinois, where he knows the competition will be fierce, and the spotlight will be bright. With new additions to his squad and a packed schedule ahead, this season is shaping up to be an explosive showcase of his talent and determination.
Off the court, Santiago enjoys life just as much as he does on it. Whether it’s spending time with friends, competing in other sports, or just soaking in moments outside of basketball, he embraces balance in his journey. But make no mistake i, his passion for the game never fades. Few things get him more fired up than an and-one finish or drawing a charge, knowing those momentum-shifting plays can swing a game in his team’s favor. When adversity strikes, his response is immediate: rally his teammates, inject energy into the squad, and keep the fire burning until the final buzzer. The best advice Santiago has ever received is "Don’t hesitate, trust the work". This
He continues to push himself beyond his limits.
I assess that Santiago’s ability to score at all three levels, coupled with his defensive tenacity and vocal leadership, makes him a player who can bring immediate impact to a college program. His fearless mentality and high basketball IQ allow him to play with confidence under pressure, while his dedication to improving his quickness and ball-handling will only make him more dangerous at the next level. As he continues to develop, expect him to be a relentless competitor who thrives in big moments, energizes his team, and plays with the kind of fire that separates great players from the rest. The future is bright, and Santiago is ready to leave his mark. Stay tuned.
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