Aaron McMorran II Aaron McMorran II 6'4" | PG/CG Desert Pines | 2028 State NV showcased his scoring prowess and defensive instincts night in and night out for the Desert Pines Jaguars this winter. His handle, change of direction, and long strides allow him to slip by or to the side of defenders. From there, he lets it go with a ton of confidence, and he is capable of dropping shots from beyond the volleyball line. His consistency is another great trait, and he brings a high-level approach every time he steps on the court. With that type of production and mindset, he should firmly be in the mix as a contender in next season’s Nevada POY race.

A true three-point specialist, Aaron McMorran’s shot making from beyond the arc was on another level, especially in the second half where he nailed multiple catch and shoot attempts that proved him to be the best jumpshooter in the gym. This lefty set his feet quickly in transition for single motion releases, with excellent mechanics from top to bottom including his arc and elevation. He was very poised and patient versus closeouts understanding how to use his jab step to create space.

McMorran made his Utah Prospects EYBL debut and did not disappoint. He is a fluid, three-level scorer and playmaker. His shooting ability in the simple catch-and-shoot was great, and he is a ball mover who can dribble into his shots. With such a solid outside shooting game, he often gets bad closeouts that lead to attacks at the rim. With a variety of finishing moves on display this weekend at The War Before the Storm in Texas, this kid is going to be fun to watch, and he fits in well with this 2028 group out in Utah. He currently holds 2 Division 1 offers and look fo rthat number to explode after the spring and summer.

Aaron McMorran II Aaron McMorran II 6'4" | PG/CG Desert Pines | 2028 State NV has climbed into the #1 spot after his very impressive sophomore campaign with Desert Pines, where he averaged 23.2 PPG. The 6’4 marksman utilizes his IQ, skill, and efficient movement to get to his spots. His patience also allows him to strike at the right time. When he gets an uncontested look, it’s going in more times than not, evidenced by his 86 triples (41%). McMorran II got downhill a decent amount this year as well, driving to both his left and right. On the defensive end, he constantly caused problems for the opposition with his wingspan and reaction time, gathering 2.8 SPG. Considering his consistent impact and elite shooting, he’s likely to turn some heads with the Utah Prospects this spring and summer.

Aaron McMorran II Aaron McMorran II 6'4" | PG/CG Desert Pines | 2028 State NV came out firing from the get go, pouring in three triples in the first quarter alone. From there, he began to get downhill and also made an impact in transition. In the second half, he got back to work and did damage at the free-throw line and beyond the arc. McMorran II was a playmaker on the defensive end as well, blocking two shots and altering others. While the Jaguars didn’t get the win, he brought his A-game and finished with a game-high 27 points.

Aaron McMorran torched the Rattlers early, splashing in three of his five three-point attempts in the first quarter to help the Jaguars build an early lead. He added a few more points before halftime, including a pair of free throws with 0.1 seconds left after drawing a foul on a three-point attempt. In the second half, McMorran took advantage of a few clean looks and knocked down two more 3-pointers, giving him five on the night.

Stats – 19 Points, 3 Assists, 1 Block

Aaron McMorran II Aaron McMorran II 6'4" | PG/CG Desert Pines | 2028 State NV has made a compelling case for himself despite being just a sophomore. He currently ranks as the third-leading scorer in the state, averaging 23.6 PPG, despite being circled on every opponent’s scouting report. The deceptive lefty has already put together several monster performances, including 30 points against Lone Peak (UT), 33 versus Laguna Hills (CA), 29 against Hesperia (CA), and 28 against Clark. I’ve also liked the way he’s been hunting down rebounds (averaging 7.2 RPG) and consistently delivering in clutch moments for the Jaguars. Highlighted by a game-winner against Aquinas and multiple big-time shots against DPAC last week. Taken together, it paints the picture of a player who checks every box you look for in a serious award candidate.

Additional Season Stats – 3.1 APG, 2.9 SPG, .3 BPG

Aaron McMorran II Aaron McMorran II 6'4" | PG/CG Desert Pines | 2028 State NV countered defenders on a regular basis last night by driving and finishing with his right hand three times. He also turned things up a notch in the second half, where he scored 16 of his 23 points. Many of his points came from 3-pointers and free throws, and he notably knocked down a triple and four free throws in the final minutes to help put the game away.

Aaron McMorran II Aaron McMorran II 6'4" | PG/CG Desert Pines | 2028 State NV unfortunately got into some early foul trouble. Which forced him to play less minutes than usual in the first half. Then in the second half he began to have a bit more success. And hit a jumper, floater and a couple of free throws. He also got that 3 to fall with minimal time life in the 4th quarter as mentioned above. He and the Jaguars will look to bounce back against Las Vegas.

Stats – 13 Points

Aaron McMorran II Aaron McMorran II 6'4" | PG/CG Desert Pines | 2028 State NV fought through screens and defenders throughout the first half. While he wasn’t able to get a ton of good looks, he finished the half with a steal and assist to make it a 3-point game. Then in the second half, he splashed in a deep 3 which gave the Jaguars some juice. After that one went in, he continued to light it up. Connecting on another 3 triples from the wing. He finished the game with a total of 16 points and 4 assists and 5 rebounds.