Player: Kaiden Swortzel
Class: 2023
Height: 6’4
School: Floyd County
Just over a week ago, Phenom Hoops went up to Virginia to check in on some of the talent around the area as they were on display at the Chance Harman Classic. A terrific event at that, one player that gave us a memorable performance was 2023 6’4 Kaiden Swortzel at Floyd County.
Floyd Co. had to go up against a tough opponent in East Rockingham, who was led by 2022 UNC commit Tyler Nickel. As Nickel had an outstanding performance going for 43 points in the game, Swortzel also had the gym buzzing with his 31-point, 16-rebound showing in an overtime thriller.
After that game, our own Patrick O’Brien had this to say:
“Outside Nickel’s performance, Swortzel was the story of the game and possibly of the day, scoring 31 points to lead his team and it seemed that no one could slow him down. He was absolutely everywhere, cleaning up on the glass, finishing around and through defenders, going through contact… He was relentless throughout the game and really made a name for himself, even though he is a smaller forward than others. Loved his performance.”
This wasn’t an “out-of-the-blue” type performance for the junior, as he has been putting in terrific performance after terrific performance. Swortzel surprises you how productive he can be being at 6’4, an undersized forward at times. On the season, Swortzel is averaging 18.6ppg, 7.4rpg, and 1.8apg; he is an absolute workhorse with a terrific motor, playing scrappy on the boards and having a knack for getting his hands on the ball, but also finding ways to score around defenders in the post, showcasing excellent footwork, and an excellent physical presence in the paint. Honestly, he is one of those classic players that will simply outwork others on the court and will shine with the energy and heart he plays with.
In learning more about Swortzel (being this was our first viewing), we also learned that he is a tight end on the football field. He was named first-team All-State after racking up 45 catches, 727 yards, and four touchdowns on the season.
The two-sport athlete is a workhorse and is one that has a chance to play either sport, especially with what he has shown on the field and on the court. But one thing is for sure, he is another prospect in the state of Virginia that seems to be flying under the radar.
Coach’s Thoughts (Coach Brian Harman):
“Kaiden is our go-to man. His footwork is old school but basic fundamental basketball is still very successful if mastered. Kaiden also is one of our best passers as well so when we get him touches something positive is going to come from it. Shooting 60 percent from the field, 75 percent from the free-throw line, and most of the time throwing out of double to our shooters increases their percentages as well.”