Transfer Profile: Rowan Hoffman

Phillips Exeter Academy landed a big-time commitment earlier this spring from 2027 forward Rowan Hoffman when he announced he would be heading to New Hampshire for his post-graduate season.

The 6’8 prospect out of South Florida completed his high school career at Pine Crest School before opting to join the NEPSAC. Hoffman had a big-time summer with ALLBALL on the MADE Hoops circuit. His combination of size and skill, paired with his incredible motor, made him one of ALLBALL’s top prospects and a surefire Division I player.

Hoffman currently holds offers from Cornell, Navy, and Holy Cross.

What stood out the most to me is how smooth and composed the forward is. He doesn’t let the defense speed him up and looks comfortable at all three levels. He plays under control, analyzes the defense, and has shown the consistent ability to make the right read, whether it is attacking a closeout, rising up for a catch-and-shoot three, or making the extra pass to an open teammate.

One of the more notable parts of his game is his ability to shoot it from the perimeter. Hoffman is already a tough cover with his size. When paired with the elevation on his jumper, his size makes his shot very difficult to contest. ALLBALL was constantly running him off flare screens. That action seemed to be a go-to play for Hoffman and his teammates to generate looks from the outside. Standing at 6’8, his ability to shoot it makes him an excellent floor spacer at the forward spot.

Along with his ability to shoot the ball, his quick and effective decision-making stood out to me. When defenders close out on the jumper too aggressively, he attacks the gaps and gets into the paint. If the defense is quick to rotate and take away his look, he is very willing to make the extra pass rather than forcing a difficult look for himself. His ability to quickly read defenses and make decisions is critical to keeping a team's offense flowing.

Hoffman displayed soft touch and finishing ability around the rim. He can also play off two feet before rising up to finish in the paint. That balance and controlled tempo allow him to stay composed in traffic and show off his counters when defenders are able to keep him in front.

Another major aspect of his game that cannot go unnoticed is his motor. Hoffman consistently attacks the glass and will quickly make an opponent pay for not locating him when a shot goes up. His ability to finish off misses with tip-ins or corral the ball for extra possessions is a way for him to impact the game without his number being called.

I am truly excited to see how Hoffman’s combination of shooting, feel, size, rebounding, and effort in the NEPSAC can help his recruitment skyrocket. A post-grad season at a NEPSAC school such as Phillips Exeter will allow him to test his skills in the New England prep scene against tough competition while continuing to build on his already established Ivy League and Patriot League recruitment.