Pace Academy’s Hayden Clay Dominates GBCA Live Period Session 1

In a highly anticipated matchup that packed out the gym between Tri-Cities and Pace Academy, Hayden Clay was special and made his presence felt in GBCA Live Period Session 1 at Lakepoint Sports Complex.

Clay showcased his full gamut of skills, finishing around the rim, throwing down dunks, shooting threes, and making post shots. He finished with 21 points against Tri-Cities and was a tough stop for the defending state champions, who are led by Tre Keith and Jalan Wingfield, some of the best in the country.

Pace Academy is already loaded with the No. 1 player in the country in Bentley Lusakueno and Brielen Craft, who is starting to bring in offers, but Clay could be a piece that helps the Knights win a championship. This is not the first time he has been able to dominate. He also dropped 25 points in a win over Central Gwinnett in the Relentless Hoops Summer League.

Clay is 6’9 and 230 pounds with a good feel for the game. He can handle the basketball and also has a good IQ, where he can find open teammates for easy buckets. When you break down his game, you see a player who can be a two-way elite big. He has the athleticism to dunk and switch over to protect the rim. Clay is also an excellent rebounder, keeping chances alive on offense and protecting the glass on defence. He can also space the floor with his jumper and knock down shots with regularity. A part of his game, you see improved is how consistent his three-ball is. There is no hesitation, but Clay shoots it with confidence. He is also more comfortable with the ball in his hands and always makes the right decision.

I don’t think it will be long before you see his recruiting begin to skyrocket and more colleges become interested in what he can bring to the table. After having a great weekend at GBCA, Clay will have another chance to follow up on his excellent play this upcoming weekend against some of the top talent from around the southeast coming into town. Clay is a class of 2026 prospect and has a good chance to continue to make his name known with more strong performances.