11.9 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 66% 2P

Mendez has done well playing up against bigger opponents, often tasked with matching up against forwards. Particularly active setting hard screens, the sophomore has done well to maximize his time on the floor. He is among the leaders in 4A sophomores in points and rebounds per game, a testament to his limitless motor. Pojoaque Valley stands at 10-11 on the season, already boasting plenty of production from their sophomore duo.

Mendez is a long forward who possesses a notably wide reach, allowing him to impact quite a few areas inside the arc. Active digging into smaller opponents in the post, the sophomore showed value initiating position for entry passes. Should opponents front the post, Mendez has shown value getting into an advantageous position for passes over the top. Given his wide reach, Mendez is valuable rotating to contest shots early on. Through his initial season at Pojoaque Valley, the forward put up 6.1 points and 5 rebounds per game. Following the departure of guard Derek Sanchez and Tobias Velasquez, the forward looks to take a leap with a larger opportunity this season. Adding strength will be valuable for Mendez, capable of guarding multiple positions in due time.

Mendez was a player that hustled all night and benefited from his team running the press as he was able to get things going for himself on the offensive end of the court. He showed good feet with staying in front of ball handlers or rotating quickly to trap. He was able to turn this into easy transition buckets finishing at the rim. He was on the boards at both ends and was able to kick it back out to reset the offense. Will be a player to watch and see if he is able to keep that same energy on day 2.

Serafin Mendez Serafin Mendez 6'4" | PF Pojoaque Valley | 2026 State NM  did everything the right way while contributing as a glue guy floor spacer with the prowess to change the game from the baseline, corners, and the dunker’s spot. Incredibly effective playing and stretching the floor off the ball, Mendez moved, cut, and rotated around the perimeter with a purpose often finding himself open enough to do damage from outside while spotting up. Willing passer, Serafin did an exceptional job of finding an open teammate with court vision, awareness, and understanding of when to score and when to kick it out. The 6-foot-5-inch prospect proved to be a standout two-way talent with tremendous potential as 3-and-D wing-forward, Mendez is one of New Mexico D1’s best defensive players as well one of their best all-around jump shooters. Mendez should also be noted as one of the toughest prospects of the weekend as he didn’t shy away from diving on the floor, competing on the boards, and giving his all for 50/50 balls.