The world of sports can be very unforgiving. No matter the ability, potential, or trajectory, one injury can drastically change everything. Rather than expecting players to return back to their original status or become better than ever, the general masses are quick to move forward. This occurs at every level of athletics. Arguably no current prospect within North Carolina understands this notion more than Brayden Crump—who has reaffirmed himself as a clear Division I prospect after recovering from two separate ACL tears. Let’s take a closer look at his comeback…
After returning to the court in the final game of Team United’s EYBL regular season, Crump only seemed to get better as time went on. Despite some (expected) struggles in the first contest, the 6-foot-9 forward went onto shoot 12-28 (42.8%) from beyond the arc over the next seven games. This stretch included three games with double-digit scoring, three with five or more rebounds, and four where he shot over 50% from distance. Although the team suffered losses during this period, it wasn’t due to Crump and the presence he provided. Being able to produce, much less in a noteworthy manner, on the EYBL should leave college coaches with a ton of optimism entering the high school season.
Over the next few months, expect various programs to get involved with Crump and the entire roster at Winston-Salem Christian. They have as much talent as anyone in the state and a legitimately devastating frontcourt grouping of Crump, Lewis Walker, Maykel Petit Canny, and Chol Machot. Fortunately, that foursome has a variety of complementary pairings, including multiple where Crump is capable of playing alongside two of the three others. It’s important to remember that without injuries, Crump would’ve likely already blown up, collected a ton of offers, and had a long list of programs to choose from. Instead, we can just appreciate his focus, discipline, and obvious work ethic in getting back to this point. Expect the smooth-shooting, high-academic forward to warrant a ton of attention over the coming months.