Benjermin Putnam “Ben”
6’6” | PF, SF | Wingspan: 78 inches
All-State 2nd Team 2024 | 1st Team All-Conference (2022-2023, 2023-2024)
3.7 GPA | boputnam72@gmail.com | @benputnam13 (Twitter)
Benjermin Putnam - FB | @BenPutnam133 (Instagram)
AAU: NLPB, WV Select, 304 Select, WV Crossover
Ben is an electric presence who commands attention every time he steps on the court. At 6’6” with a 78-inch wingspan, he blends strength, skill, and versatility in a way that makes him a nightmare for defenders. His ability to dominate inside with his power and footwork is matched by his deadly touch from deep, particularly from the corner three. Ben doesn’t just play the game; he attacks it with a fierce determination, shrugging off double-teams and relentless defensive pressure to find his shot. His ball-handling skills are strong for his size, allowing him to run the floor with confidence. Whether he’s crashing through contact for a bucket, stretching the floor with his shooting, or leading his team with unwavering intensity, he is a force that refuses to be denied.
Averaging 22 points per game, Ben's scoring ability speaks for itself, but his growth over the past year has taken his game to another level. His biggest improvement was his strength and physicality. The weight room has transformed his ability to finish through contact, giving him the edge he needs to absorb hits and still put the ball in the hoop. His focus this offseason is to continue building his strength, elevate his all-around game, and make sure college coaches take notice. Ben has already proven himself as a leader, earning 1,000 career points in December 2024, with a legitimate shot at breaking his school’s all-time scoring record of 1,500 points. His dedication to giving 100% every single day fuels his success, but what truly sets him apart is his unwavering faith. Through every obstacle, every setback, and every challenge, he leans on God, trusting in His plan and giving Him the glory for every success.
The AAU circuit is another proving ground where Ben continues to thrive. Playing for multiple teams, including NLPB, WV Select, 304 Select, and WV Crossover, he’s constantly in high-level competition, refining his game against some of the best talent in the region. The goal this summer is exposure and opportunity. He’s focused on getting in front of more college coaches, making a strong case for why he belongs at the next level. With his skill set and work ethic, the right fit is out there. Ben feels he just needs the right opportunity to showcase his abilities.
Off the court, Ben is just as dedicated and driven. He’s passionate about mentoring young athletes, spending countless hours volunteering with youth basketball programs. He understands what it means to be a role model and takes that responsibility seriously. Whether he’s giving back to his community, spending time outdoors fishing and boating, or riding his motorcycle, Ben embraces every moment with the same energy and intensity he brings to the game. Ben is also deeply involved in 4H, raising and showing market hogs for the past eight years, proving his work ethic extends far beyond basketball.
Adversity has shaped him into the relentless competitor he is today. Losing his father at a young age in a tragic situation could have broken him, but instead, it fueled him. Without a father figure coaching him on the sidelines, he had to fight harder, push himself further, and prove his worth on his own terms. Travel ball wasn’t always fair, but he never used it as an excuse. Ben let his game do the talking, earning his place through determined effort and perseverance. That fire still burns in him today, driving him to push past every roadblock and prove that nothing will stop him from achieving his dreams.
Ben thrives in the heat of competition, and nothing fuels him more than battling through contact and finishing at the rim despite the odds. When he gets fouled repeatedly with no calls, he doesn’t back down but plays even harder. When opponents talk trash, he lets his game do the talking. And when everything is on the line, like the upcoming sectional game against RCB, he steps up with an unshakable belief that his team has what it takes to win.
As Ben looks ahead to the next level, he knows the road isn’t easy, but he’s ready. He’s already spoken with several D2 programs, including Davis & Elkins, Glenville, Fairmont, and Penn State Fayette, and plans to reach out to more. Ben's goal is to find the right program where he can continue to grow, compete, and contribute at a high level. With his skill set, leadership, and relentless drive, there’s no doubt he’ll make an impact wherever he goes.
The best advice Ben has ever received is, "We don’t lose; we learn. Zero excuses." That has carried him through every challenge and will continue to fuel his success long after his high school career ends.
Ben is the type of player every college coach dreams of in their program. His size, strength, and versatile skill set make him a serious asset at the next level. His ability to play both forward positions gives a coach flexibility in their lineup. He can bang inside, stretch the floor, and even handle the ball when needed. His scoring ability, high basketball IQ, and leadership qualities make him a player who can immediately contribute.
Ben's most significant asset to a college team is his toughness and competitive fire. He doesn’t back down from physicality, and his ability to score through contact makes him a reliable offensive weapon. Defensively, his length and strength allow him to guard multiple positions, adding even more value. His leadership, both on and off the court, ensures he’ll be a key piece in any locker room.
Ben will have an immediate impact with continued development in his agility and foot speed, along with his lateral quickness to defend quicker wings at the next level. His shooting consistency will be another focus. Though he is already a strong shooter, becoming elite from beyond the arc will make him even more dangerous. His work ethic and faith-driven mindset guarantee that wherever he lands, he’ll keep pushing to be the best version of himself.
Ben isn’t just a player to watch but a name to remember. He’s a player who’s going to make waves at the next level. And with his heart, determination, and faith, his story is far from finished.
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