Q&A with Nebraska Commit Brayden Shannon
January 20, 2026
One of the top infielders in the state, INF Brayden Shannon (Blue Valley Southwest) was a member of Team Kansas at this past summer’s Future Games, committing to Nebraska shortly after. Shannon is a rhythmic mover at the plate with a quick, efficient swing and a strong feel for the barrel. He pairs that offensive skill set with elite speed on the basepaths and in the field, where he’s a smooth, sure-handed defender—traits that were on full display at the Future Games this past summer.
We recently had the chance to talk to Shannon about his recruitment process, along with some other fun topics, below.
Our Q&A
Prep Baseball: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?
Brayden: My dad told me to treat Aug 1 the same as I did July 1, I didn’t go into Aug 1 with an expectation of receiving any calls. I got lucky and had the opportunity to speak with some of the best coaches in college baseball, and that was awesome. Those conversations provided me with the opportunity to compare and make a decision along with visiting the schools.
I was looking for a connection with the coaches. The amazing facilities and support staff and all the other amenities that Nebraska provides is just icing on the cake.
PB: What do you like most about the program you chose, and what were the key factors in making your decision?
B: The coaching staff and school is what I like most. The history the coaching staff has together played a part in my decision. Also that coach Bolt has extended thru 2029 played a role. The coaches vision for me matches what I want to accomplish. Great fit all around.
PB: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?
B: Focus on getting better and developing at the everyday in some form or fashion. Learn the game, have fun, and enjoy these times. Let your play on the field do your talking. The rest will take care of itself.
PB: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?
B: Yes, it’s important to me that my sister Paige has the ability to watch me play.
PB: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Where did the school you committed to first see you play?
B: With the rule change going into my freshmen year. Recruiting for me didn’t heat up until Aug 1 of 2025, going into my junior year.
Coach Harvell saw me at a PBR event in Indy.
PB: Was there a particular Prep Baseball tournament or showcase that helped accelerate your recruiting process? If yes, how so?
B: I would say the Future Games. A lot of schools mentioned watching me at the Future Games.
PB: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?
B: Clemson, Oklahoma, Vanderbilt
PB: Who is the best player you have faced in your state? What about them makes for a tough opponent?
B: Hard to name just one. One that stands out is the time during a scrimmage my freshmen season, I faced Anson Seibert who was a senior at the time. Anson is a dominate pitcher and I’m glad we were teammates that season.
PB: If you could steal any tool or quality from another player in the state, what would it be and who would it be from?
B: Luke Hanahan’s leadership in the dugout. Luke does a great job of being one of our leaders. Great dugout guy, mentor and friend. If I hit from the left side. I would want to steal his power as a LHH.
PB: Who is the next talented young player to keep an eye on out of your high school or travel program?
B: Charlie Foote and Brock Bailey. Both stepped up huge for us last season as freshmen. They both have been putting the work in to improve. Excited for the futures. Two great ball players.
PB: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college-caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?
B: Playing professional baseball has always been one of my life goals. College is a huge goal and next step in achieving my goal of having a successful career playing pro ball. I don’t focus on being good enough. I focus on being as good as I can and developing to be the best player I can be. The rest will shake out and take care of itself.
PB: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?
B: There’s been a lot of them. But, the one that sticks out the most right now is probably last years win over BVN. Our pitching staff battled all game keeping us in it. It was a back and forth game. We took the lead in the bottom of the 6th. They rallied to take the lead in the top of the 7th. The boys didn’t show any quit, battled back to walk it off in the 7th. Our team got better that day. We learned a lot about who we are as a team and that has me excited for this season.
PB: Preview your high school team's season for us. How do you feel your team will be?
B: Very excited about this upcoming High School season. Our coaching staff does an amazing job of preparing us for the tough competition the EKL produces. Coach Kincaid ensures we play a tough, competitive in-season schedule to prepare us for a postseason run. We had a young squad last year. Looking to build on last year’s success and add to the successful history of this program that Coach Kincaid has built here at Southwest.
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