Creighton’s anchor heads toward NBA spotlight
Ryan Kalkbrenner has been a loyal and consistent presence for the Creighton Bluejays, spending his entire college career with the program. He was rated as a four-star recruit after putting up big performances for the Trinity Catholic High School in Missouri. He has now been picked by #34 by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Despite receiving offers from top schools like Stanford, Purdue, and Kansas, the center chose to commit to Creighton University. There he developed into one of the cornerstone big men. Over his time at Creighton, Kalkbrenner developed into one of the most dominant and reliable big men in college basketball.
His minutes grew as he passed out year by year. In his senior season with the Creighton Bluejays, Ryan put up 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game. His outstanding defensive impact earned him the prestigious Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award, given to the nation’s top center.
With the 34th pick of the NBA Draft, the @hornets select Ryan Kalkbrenner (@RyanKalkbrenner)!
— NBA (@NBA) June 27, 2025
Second Round of the 2025 #NBADraft presented by State Farm is LIVE on ESPN! pic.twitter.com/sEhWNtGOnB
Ryan Kalkbrenner’s Age
Kalkbrenner was born on January 17, 2002, in Florissant, Missouri to Kraig and Lynn Kalkbrenner. He is currently 23-years-old.
Ryan Kalkbrenner’s Height
At 7’1” (Barefoot), Ryan establishes well in the deep post position, making it easier to score. His towering frame makes him a shot-blocking threat and a constant disruptor near the rim.
Ryan Kalkbrenner’s Weight
Weighing 257 lbs, the center holds his ground against physical defenders, facilitating effective post moves. His weight also adds to his ability to box out opponents on both ends of the court.
Ryan Kalkbrenner’s Vertical and Wingspan
Kalkbrenner’s 7’6” wingspan gives him elite rebounding range and allows him to contest shots, alter passing lanes, and force turnovers with ease. On offense, the 23-year-old can create mismatches in the post, drawing double teams to free up teammates for open shots.
Ryan Kalkbrenner has a 29.0 inches (no-step vertical) and 33.0 inches (max vertical). His vertical leap allows him to finish above the rim, run in transition, and complete alley-oops or second-chance buckets with authority.
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