"Full-Throttle Firestarter: The Calm Commander With a Fierce Instinct"

Elijah Ives

@ElijahIves10

IG: @elijahives10

6'0, 185lbs. Class of 2026

Point Beach HS, NJ

Elijah is the spark every team needs and, even under pressure, the flame that keeps burning. He is a gritty, do-it-all guard with a non-stop motor, thrives in chaos, and owns the moment when things get tight. Built strong and wired for hustle, he pushes the pace, attacks the paint with purpose, and fills the stat sheet on both ends. Whether he's diving for loose balls, pulling up from three, or setting the tone defensively, Elijah brings an edge that’s impossible to ignore. He plays with fire but his IQ guides his ship, never rushed, never rattled. When doubted, he doesn't talk back, he lets his game speak loud and clear, showing them. His game screams heart, hunger, and toughness.

This past season, Elijah put up 174 points, averaging 8 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. His biggest improvement was lighting it up from deep. But he’s not settling and this offseason, he’s improving his footwork, attacking off two feet, and building up his mid-range bag to keep defenders guessing. He had his moment in the spotlight with a clutch 4-point play during the state quarterfinals, helping Point Beach extend its playoff run. That play wasn’t luck, it was preparation meeting opportunity, and Elijah was ready for it.

He’s focused on exposure this offseason, competing with Jersey Shore Basketball Club while also representing PhD Hoops Team USA (U18) on an international stage in Spain this June. His goals are locked in to develop his all-around game, get noticed by the right programs, and continue proving why he belongs in the conversation. He’s looking forward to the Spain trip and the Charm City Invitational in Baltimore as his biggest stages to shine.

For his final high school run, Elijah’s hungry for another deep playoff push and more moments to lead his squad when it counts. When facing adversity, he tunes out the noise, focuses on the floor, and lets his play speak louder than anything else. The best coaching advice that he has ever received is, "Don’t let anyone dictate your pace, trust your training and control the game". That’s exactly how Elijah flows.

I assess that Elijah brings more than numbers, but he brings a presence. His toughness, confidence, and feel for the game make him a valuable asset to any college program in need of a guard who can lead with effort, heart, and unshakable energy.

Expect Elijah to shine even brighter this offseason and into his senior year. With his mindset, motor, and growth on both ends, he’s on track to become a major impact player wherever he lands. He makes winning plays and makes teammates better doing it. Pursuit of being the perfect floor general with a scoring edge. Stay tuned to see his potential rise and shine.