2024 5A/4A All-State Returners: Perimeter Playmakers

These guards handle pressure unlike so many others in the 2025 class, bringing in a high feel for the game thanks to their quick instincts and bold approaches with the ball.    Morris is among the shiftiest guards in the state, with the ball on string through however many defenders. He does well operating in tight spaces, not fazed by aggressive help from ball screens or drives. Already drawing offers from multiple programs, including Western New Mexico, Northern New Mexico, Trinidad State, and Marshalltown. Although undersized, Morris continues to reaffirm his defensive intangibles throughout this club season. Assertive taking away space at the point of attack, the guard looks to pressure opponents well above the three point line.     Adams remains a steady shotmaker from all three levels, bringing a fluid release to the table from all three levels. One of the premier three point shooters in the state. Previously garnering an offer from Adams State, the guard shows plenty of intrigue at the collegiate level due to his wiry frame. As well, his defensive abilities are just as much of a contributor to his success at the high school and club levels.     One of the more notable high volume shotmakers in the state, Licon sat atop the 4A player of the year votes for good reason. His lofty numbers have carried over into various local tournaments, a knockdown shooter out of ball screens or while flowing into attempts off of movement. Continuing to refine his abilities as a facilitator with the ball, the guard has proven comfortable handling lead guard responsibilities up against competitive club programs with ABC Spotlight. His improvements in change of pace have made him a bit tougher to defend one on one, gaining confidence operating in tight windows. Far from just a shooter, his relative size at the position have made him an impactful defender up against bigger matchups. Fairly strong in the post, he holds his own versus wings, making any attempts incredibly difficult.     Following second team all-state and a quarterfinals run with Lovington, the wing was highly productive all season. A fairly tall complementary scorer who has impressed through his physical drives and soft touch on attempts around the rim. Effective getting to straight line drives off the rip past a closeout, Covington's steady improvements with the ball have continued to mitigate his potential as a turnover risk. Defensively, he brings above average instincts at the point of attack, willing to jab at stagnant opponents for deflections. Of course, with Lovington he was tasked with guarding many of the biggest opponents, retaining a fair bit of strength at his height.     A smooth downhill playmaker, the guard routinely found success throughout the season, at the helm for the offense the vast majority of the season. Garnering second team all-state honors for his production with 16-13 Portales, the multi-sport guard has excelled in multiple areas throughout his high school career.     The high motor guard grabbed second team all-state honors, thanks to his ability to produce in fast paced environments. A nose for the ball, the guard looks to kickstart fast breaks following the immediate defensive rebound. Constantly attacking the rim to get the defense rotating, the lead guard is primed for another big year. As well a multi sport athlete dualling in Baseball, Melonas is multi-faceted at a minimum.

These guards handle pressure unlike so many others in the 2025 class, bringing in a high feel for the game thanks to their quick instincts and bold approaches with the ball.