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Scout Report
When three ranked players share the same backcourt, somebody has to learn how to complement rather than dominate. That dynamic at Redondo Union is shaping how Chris Sanders approaches the game as a 6-5 junior forward.
Background
Sanders grew up in the beach communities of Southern California, where Redondo Beach's basketball culture runs deep through the program's competitive league play. Playing for Redondo Union, he's developed within a system that emphasizes team basketball and high-level competition. The program has become a pipeline for college talent, with Sanders emerging as the latest prospect to draw Division I attention from the South Bay area.
Playing Style
Sanders operates as a versatile forward who understands how to find his spots within a talented offensive system. He's comfortable initiating offense from the perimeter but equally effective cutting to the rim and finishing in traffic. His court vision allows him to make the right pass when defenses collapse, and he rarely forces bad shots even when his number isn't called. Defensively, he uses his length well to contest shots and can guard multiple positions, switching effectively on screens. The pace never seems too fast for him, whether in transition or half-court sets. His decision-making reflects someone who's learned to play winning basketball rather than chase individual statistics.
Strengths
The shooting stroke from three-point range has college coaches taking notice, with consistent mechanics and range that extends well beyond the arc. Sanders possesses the kind of basketball IQ that shows up in small moments - finding the open man in scramble situations and making the extra pass that leads to easier baskets. His length bothers opposing wings on defense, and he's developed solid footwork that allows him to stay in front of quicker players. The motor runs consistently high, and he impacts games through hustle plays and defensive rotations that don't always show up in the box score.
Areas to Watch
Adding strength to his frame would unlock more opportunities to finish through contact and become a more physical presence on the boards. His handle needs refinement to consistently create his own shot against athletic defenders, particularly when asked to be a primary scoring option. Developing a more aggressive mindset offensively could elevate his ceiling, as he sometimes defers when he has good looks.
Player Comparison
His game has shades of Doug McDermott's college years - a smart shooter who knows how to move without the ball and find open spaces on the court. Like McDermott, Sanders makes his teammates better through unselfish play and rarely takes possessions off defensively. The comparison fits because both players maximize their physical tools through high basketball IQ rather than elite athleticism.
Recruitment
Currently holding offers from UNLV, Cal State Northridge, and Long Beach State, with his recruitment still in the early stages for a 2027 prospect. The West Coast schools recognize his potential within their systems, and his local ties make programs like Long Beach State particularly appealing. As his junior season progresses and AAU circuit play ramps up, expect more mid-major and potentially low-major conference schools to extend offers. His timeline allows for development, and a strong junior campaign could bring higher-level interest from programs looking for skilled forwards who understand their role.
Projection
At the college level, Sanders projects as a role player who could develop into a reliable starter for a mid-major program by his junior or senior season. His ceiling involves becoming a consistent three-point threat who can play multiple positions and contribute to winning basketball through smart play and defensive versatility. Professional basketball seems unlikely unless he adds significant athleticism or becomes an elite shooter, but his basketball IQ suggests he'll have a productive college career and potentially opportunities overseas.
Updated Apr 4, 2026 · Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Career Journey
Redondo Union
PREP SCHOOL
Offers
3
UNLVOffers sourced from 247Sports and social media monitoring.