Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV is still slotted in the #2 spot. He has been performing at a high level over the last few months and stands out nearly every time he laces them up. He notably shot the ball efficiently at Section 7, and his bucket-getting ability makes him a difficult cover for just about any defender. On the defensive end, he continues to take on some of the top players from opposing teams, locking them down more often than not thanks to his athleticism, strength, and length.

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV opened the Nevada Live Invitational with a dominant 28-point performance against Notre Dame. He scored in a variety of ways, knocking down jumpers, triples, and finishes in the paint. Merto also made a significant impact on the defensive end, contesting shots and high pointing rebounds. All in all, he showcased why he’s one of Nevada’s top prospects.

Tyler was electric all weekend long for the Jaguars, averaging 20ppg while shooting at an insane 59% from the field and an even crazier 53% from three. The 6’6″ wing displayed the ability to bring the ball up in transition, going coast to coast on multiple occasions. He displayed his bump, turnaround fades in the middy, his three balls both off the catch and off the dribble, as well as his strength and body control finishing through contact at the rim. He defended at a high level, guarding 1-5 every game, proving that he can be placed anywhere because of his IQ mixed with his physical tools. Tyler can be seen next in July, playing with Prominent Elite in the PRO16 and NXTPRO playoffs.

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV emptied the gas tank down in Arizona. Giving his team everything he had in their 4 games. In Desert Pines first contest, he delivered what turned out to be the game winning free throws in OT. Along with dunks and other strong takes to the cup. He was also on a heater from distance, draining over half his 3-point attempts (53%)Defensively, he covered ground at a rapid rate. Allowing him to contest shots and put the pressure on opposing ball-handlers. College coaches may want to check out this versatile 3 and D prospect ASAP.

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV officially received his first offer from Weber St. His stock is way up these days, and it’s easy to see why. He is a legit 2 way player that will make an impact with his strength and athleticism. He isn’t an easy player to get a clean look against on defense. While on offense he scores from all 3 levels and he’ll get it done in crunch time too. If he keeps it up, there’s a great chance he has a few more offers by July or August.

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV is a threat that opponents have to respect. On offense, he uses his long strides, athleticism, and length to shoot over defenders or get all the way to the cup. He’s also the type of player that will throw it down with authority if given the chance. Defensively, I liked how he made his matchup uncomfortable, and I noticed him coming down with rebounds. Considering his recent play and next-level attributes, he could be a player who picks up interest from college coaches during the Puma NXTPRO live period this weekend in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV jumped up to #2 in the latest 2027 update, and his development on both ends has been great to watch. On offense, he can truly score from all three levels, making him a threat anytime he touches the ball. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill makes him very difficult to contain in the paint, and his confidence continues to grow. On defense, he’ll likely be asked to cover opposing teams’ stronger players, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we see him blocking more shots. If you’re a college coach, you may want to follow him this AAU season. And I believe he’ll be a contender come next year.

Stock riser alert! Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV ascends to #2 from #5. He earns the new ranking thanks to his high-impact play on both offense and defense for Desert Pines. On offense, he proved that he can score inside at will if he wants to, utilizing his footwork, frame, and strength. But he’s also lethal with his mid-range jumper, and he shot an impressive 35% from downtown. On the other end of the court, he will swat shots out of bounds and can get physical against taller forwards, making him a very well-rounded prospect overall. Catch him running with Prominent Elite this spring/summer, where he’ll look to pick up his first offer.

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV grew more assertive and aggressive as the game progressed. He finished multiple putbacks, threw down a dunk, and used his athleticism to operate effectively in the paint. It was clear he was in rhythm and that he was feeling it. Although his season has come to an end, he closed it out with an exclamation point. It’ll be interesting to see how he builds on that momentum during AAU this spring and summer.

Stats – 19 Points

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV had a very efficient night on offense against Mojave. He hit a pair of threes, threw down a monster dunk off an inbounds pass, and consistently scored on second-chance opportunities. Snagging three offensive rebounds in total. Merto caused problems for the Rattlers on the defensive end as well, applying strong ball pressure and using his length to be disruptive. On top of that, he also pulled down some quality rebounds, capping off a very complete performance.

Stats – 20 Points, 10 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 2 Steals, 1 Block