4-star PF Brandon Gardner commits to USC, "excited" to play with Bronny James

Brandon Gardner, a four-star power forward in the class of 2023, is headed to LA and has committed to USC, he told On3.

The 6-foot-7 senior out of Middle Village (N.Y.) Christ the King was previously signed with St. John’s but decommitted after the coaching change and Rick Pitino was hired.

Gardner, a native of Raleigh, N.C., discussed his commitment to the Trojans with On3.

“Ultimately, I chose USC because I wanted a place I can play, expand my game, and grow as a player,” Gardner said. “With the high level staff and their attention to detail, I’m sure to maximize my talent and with work, achieve my ultimate goal to play at the next level.”

Gardner is looking forward to play with the freshmen tandem of Isaiah Collier and Bronny James.

“I can’t wait to play with a fast-paced point guard that facilitates at a high-level and controls the offense when needed. It’s exciting to play with Bronny, a dynamic overall player with the mind of his dad. The ability to play with a player with the ability to change pace and playmaker is gone be next-level excitement for me and the fans. A lot of wins and alley oops!”

What type of player is USC getting in Brandon Gardner, in his own words?

“My game is simple,” he says. “I can do everything on the court with the proper opportunity but I strive on the defensive end. I block shots, attack the rim, and can shoot the three ball.”

Gardner has a message for USC fans.

“To the fans, you’re getting a hard-working, dedicated, game changer locked in and ready to go!”

Gardner Scouting Report

“Brandon Gardner is a long and explosive forward prospect. He has a quick lift, possibly as much as anyone in high school basketball. He uses his vertical explosion and 7-foot wingspan to be a factor around the basket. His ball skills have improved this season; he can face up and attack off two dribbles. Gardner has touch, you see it from the free-throw line. He has become a more consistent shooter when asked to take jump shots. However, Gardner can be fierce around the basket. As he continues to put on strength, his game will only continue to become more productive.” – On3’s Jamie Shaw

Gardner is the No. 107 overall prospect and No. 17 power forward in the 2023 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.