Standing at an imposing 6’9”, Henry Gruetzmacher is a power forward with a well-rounded skill set and a high ceiling.
A member of the 2026 class at Brookfield Central High School in Wisconsin, Gruetzmacher plays club basketball for the Wisconsin Playground Club, competing in the highly regarded Under Armour Association (UAA) circuit.
His performance has garnered attention, earning him the 2023 Rise Circuit 15U MVP award, a testament to his impact on the court at a young age.
Gruetzmacher’s game is built on a strong foundation of size, skill, and basketball IQ.
He operates effectively in the low post, utilizing his frame to establish deep positioning and finish through contact.
His touch around the rim is impressive, complemented by a developing mid-range jumper that adds versatility to his offensive arsenal.
He also displays an advanced understanding of spacing, screening, and positioning, making him a valuable asset in both half-court sets and transition opportunities.
Defensively, Gruetzmacher’s length makes him a formidable shot-blocker and an active presence on the glass.
He alters shots in the paint and has shown the ability to defend multiple positions due to his mobility.
His rebounding ability, both offensively and defensively, is a standout trait, as he secures boards at a high rate and initiates fast breaks with precise outlet passes.
Beyond his physical tools, Gruetzmacher’s work ethic and dedication to improving his game are evident.
His 3.6 GPA reflects his discipline off the court, and his commitment to honing his craft suggests that his best basketball is still ahead of him.
As he continues to refine his skill set, improve his strength, and expand his offensive repertoire, his potential to play at the next level becomes increasingly clear.
Strengths:
- Interior scoring dominance
- Strong rebounding ability
- Defensive versatility
- High basketball IQ
Areas for Improvement:
- Expanding three-point range
- Adding upper body strength
- Improving lateral quickness
- Enhancing ball-handling skills
College Projection:
- Mid-to-high major Division I
- Potential Power Five contributor
- Immediate impact player
- Long-term pro potential
Conclusion:
Henry Gruetzmacher is an elite 2026 prospect with all the tools to succeed at the Division I level and beyond.
His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ makes him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor.
While he continues to refine his shooting and strength, his work ethic and dedication suggest that he will develop into a high-level collegiate player with professional aspirations.
With continued growth and development, Gruetzmacher has the potential to be a game-changer at the next level.