Damien Rios Damien Rios 6'0" | SG/PG Ponderosa | 2027 State CO has been a reliable spark plug for Ponderosa this past season, providing consistent energy and two-way production in the highly competitive Continental League. As a junior, Rios has averaged 9.7 PPG across 20 contests, showing a particular knack for scoring in bunches. Rios’ efficiency at the rim is a focal point of his offensive profile, but his defensive activity is arguably where he makes the most noise, contributing 1.8 SPG.  Standing as a key member of the Jaguars’ core assets, Rios combines scoring versatility with a high motor, contributing 2.7 RPG and nearly an assist per game. His ability to disrupt passing lanes and convert those turnovers into transition points has made him a vital secondary scoring option for Ponderosa.

Damien Rios Damien Rios 6'0" | SG/PG Ponderosa | 2027 State CO was a relentless defensive catalyst and a spark plug for the Ponderosa Mustangs. Operating as a defensive hawk, Rios disrupted opposing offenses while tacking on 1.8 SPG, frequently turning transition opportunities into momentum-swinging buckets. Beyond his defensive grit, the versatile guard contributed a steady 9.7 PPG and 2.7 RPG, showcasing a fearless ability to slash to the rim and fight for position against larger opponents. Rios’ high-energy playstyle benefited Ponderosa’s tactical schemes, providing the Mustangs with a grit-and-grind identity that few teams could match. Damien Rios Damien Rios 6'0" | SG/PG Ponderosa | 2027 State CO is quickly becoming a name that coaches across the Continental League have to circle on the scouting report.

Damien Rios Damien Rios 6'0" | SG/PG Ponderosa | 2027 State CO will be a name to know as we begin league play soon, and he looks to be playing his best ball as we get closer to the heart of the season. He’s finished both inside and out and showed that his game has expanded. He’s a versatile prospect who does not shy away from contact; he does the dirty work, and his effort continues to keep Ponderosa in games. He’s putting up 9.9 points and 3.3 rebounds a game, and I’m willing to bet that those rise here shortly as he appears in a groove. His aggressiveness will be the difference for the Mustangs, and he’s a prospect we have eyes on moving forward. 

Rios has an excellent handle and was in control of the ball. When the other team started turning his teammates over with the press, he was a player that Hardwood Elite gave the ball to handle that pressure, and he got through it with ease. He has a good feel for the game, navigates in a fast-paced set, and passes teammates to open shots. That’s IQ. He’s a guard who intrigues me with his upside. Certainly a player I want to see more of and he played well on the weekend.