Indiana University’s head coach Darian DeVries made a point to be in the front row at the Under Armour Next showcase in Kansas City, where the state’s top prospects are evaluated during the spring live period. He was seated baseline for Branham’s entire game on Friday, underscoring the coach’s direct interest in the player’s development.
The player he was watching, five‑star guard Chase Branham, arrived at the event fresh off a Class 4A state championship with Logan‑Rogersville High School in Missouri. During the semifinal run, he scored 31 points and grabbed seven rebounds, helping his squad to a 4‑0 start at the opening weekend of Under Armour Next play.
Scouting the Future
Branham’s statistical dominance is reflected in his No. 25 national ranking by 247Sports for the 2027 class, a rating that has drawn attention from recruit analysts and college programs alike. The guard also recently tested himself against elite competition at the USA Basketball Junior National Team minicamp in Indianapolis, where he earned a spot among the nation’s most promising prospects.
Coach DeVries, who has been linked to a potential return to the Big Ten, observed the entire game from the baseline, taking notes on Branham’s defensive versatility and clutch shooting. His presence highlighted the significance of the evaluation period for both the player and the program.
The evaluation period will continue with additional events scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, giving coaches and scouts further opportunities to assess Branham’s development before the summer recruiting calendar intensifies.