What we know: 

We know that Desmond was one of the best freshmen in the state a year ago before he went down with an injury. He showed himself as a balanced guard with good size, a scorer who can put the ball in the basket, and a playmaker who sets up teammates. You put the ball in his hand,s and good things happen. 

What we’d like to see: 

I want to see if he’s still that guy and can get back to that player, and more. I want to see if that was just a minor setback or if he improved as a shooter and ballhandler without being able to play. This is our first time seeing him since he got back, but we’ve heard great things from coaches on him returning to form. We want to see how he competes and pushes himself against the top players in the state, and if he separates himself. Excited to see what he looks like. 

Before going down with an injury, Desmond Burns Desmond Burns 6'3" | CG St Mary's Colorado Springs | 2028 CO was one of the most productive freshmen in the state. He was averaging 8.9 points and 4.6 assists per game for St. Mary’s, operating as both a scoring option and floor general. Burns plays with poise and confidence, showing a high IQ and an ability to get teammates involved. His leadership stood out early, and he consistently made winning plays. With good size for his position and a selfless approach, Burns has high long-term upside. Once fully healthy, expect him to make a strong return and quickly remind everyone why he’s one to watch.

Burns has hit the ground running with Saint Mary’s, bringing an aggressive mindset as a downhill scorer and playmaker. Leading that group in assists per game, his quick first step grants him plenty of driving lanes which ultimately draws in opposing defenses. Once help arrives, he has proven himself as a dependable decision maker to make the extra pass to a cutter or perimeter shooter. 

Burns will be a name to follow through the coming seasons, bringing confidence out behind the arc. A smooth shotmaker off the bounce, he provided value out of ball screens, capable of reading the floor for his next move. While only a 2028, he was a pleasant surprise competing against older matchups.

Desmond proved to be the X-Factor for his team, leveraging his length on defense to disrupt plays. Offensively, he was a consistent scorer, whether knocking down shots or driving to the rim for easy points.