"Playmaker on a Mission: Shaking Up the Rankings with Relentless Fire"

Brayden Favors

@bfavewitdashifts

6’4, Class of 2026

Niles HS, MI

Brayden is explosive, electric, and relentless as a dynamic three-level scorer that every coach dreams of building around. With a game fueled by fierce pull-up jumpers, confident shooting, crafty rim attacks, and unselfish playmaking, Brayden doesn’t just score but takes over. His ability to stretch defenses, create his own shot, and elevate the play of everyone around him separates him from the pack. Coaches know exactly what they’re getting every time Brayden steps on the court: a fierce competitor who reads the game, hunts mismatches, and lifts his team with contagious energy and smooth execution. His rising athleticism, strong basketball IQ, and relentless desire to keep improving give him a ceiling that’s nowhere near being reached.

This past season, Brayden averaged 17 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 block per game, racking up 386 total points along the way. His biggest improvement from the previous season wasn’t just in numbers, it was in leadership. Brayden fully embraced becoming the dependable cornerstone his team needed, showing he could step up and carry the load when adversity hit. Even when faced with teammates quitting, Brayden turned adversity into opportunity, raising his game across the board and leading his squad to a winning record when the offense flowed through his hands. That experience became a defining moment, elevating both his confidence and his control of the game.

This offseason, Brayden is locked in on elevating his shot-making ability, focusing on drilling contested jumpers, and refining his off-the-dribble shooting to make himself even tougher to guard. He's also working on becoming quicker, more athletic, and stronger when attacking to his left, constantly pushing the edges of his already dangerous game. AAU season has already started with fireworks: Brayden exploded for 42 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 blocks at the Rumble in the Rapids tournament, showing exactly why he’s determined to shake up the Michigan 2026 rankings. Playing with Team Soil alongside friends and top area talents, Brayden is using every game to get in front of college coaches, aiming for a Top 50 ranking and hunting down that first D2 offer.

Looking ahead, Brayden has his sights set on major events like Havoc in the Heartland, where he’s eager to prove just how much better, stronger, and sharper he has become since last season. His goals for his senior year are to lead his high school team deep into the state tournament and make a serious push for Regionals and beyond. His fire burns brightest in high-energy games and high-stakes environments, where he thrives on seeing his teammates succeed and making those momentum-shifting plays that electrify the whole gym.

When facing adversity, Brayden doesn’t fade; he adapts. Whether it’s rebounding harder, creating open looks for others, or locking down on defense, he finds ways to keep making an impact. His mindset is rooted in resilience and team success, never letting one obstacle define his game. The best advice that he has ever received is "Just play." Trusting the flow of the game without forcing, Brayden lets his instincts, preparation, and drive create the moments where he shines brightest.

And make no mistake about it: Brayden Favors is a name that Michigan hoops will be forced to reckon with. With his unmatched determination, explosive offensive arsenal, and leadership on and off the court, he's ready to shake up the rankings and leave his stamp on the Class of 2026. Believe that.

I assess that Brayden has the skill set, mentality, and drive that can immediately elevate a college program. His ability to create offense at all three levels, coupled with his unselfish playmaking instincts, makes him a weapon who can either carry a scoring load or seamlessly fit into a team-first system. His leadership qualities, ability to stay composed under adversity, and hunger for growth will allow him to positively impact any roster and bring toughness, scoring, and heart to whichever program believes in him first.

As Brayden continues to improve his explosiveness, evolve his left-hand attacks, and add strength to his frame, his potential only grows more exciting. Expect him to emerge as one of Michigan's most improved and feared guards this AAU season and heading into his senior year. With his fierce work ethic, evolving versatility, and powerful competitive fire, Brayden has all the tools to become a major name at the next level, and he's only getting started. Stay tuned.