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

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV jump-started the Desert Pines offense in the first quarter, scoring seven of their 13 points. He was getting to his spots with ease and utilized his high release point to shoot over opponents. I also liked how he handled Democracy Prep’s defensive pressure and dished out assists. Defensively, he hustled all game long and didn’t give up any easy buckets.

Stats – 9 Points, 3 Assists

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV had a strong offensive showing in Desert Pines’ game against San Gabriel Academy. He used his size and frame to knock down mid-range jumpers over defenders and connected on 3 of 5 from beyond the arc. Merto also grabbed 5 rebounds, finishing with 20 points. Although the Jaguars fell short, it was impressive to see him put together such an efficient shooting performance.

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV is becoming even more versatile and has looked phenomenal in his first couple of games this season. Offensively, he scores from all three levels and consistently leaks out in transition to throw down eye-popping dunks. On defense, he’s also been a playmaker, blocking shots and coming up with steals for the Jaguars. With his momentum trending upward, Merto is positioning himself for a breakout year.

Currently averaging 14.5 PPG

Tyler Merto Tyler Merto 6'6" | SF Desert Pines | 2027 State NV did a little bit of everything for the Jaguars last night. On defense, he got physical when needed and forced Devan Christion Devan Christion 6'8" | PF Clark | 2026 State #194 Nation NV away from the basket multiple times. While also staying alert to pick off a couple of steals. On the offensive end, he picked his spots well. Pouring in both triples and mid-range jumpers. And adding a powerful dunk in the fourth quarter. Overall, it was a great performance from him and he showed some grit.

Stats – 12 Points

The 2027 SF checks the length box as well. He has a 78 inch wingspan, which was good for the 4th biggest wingspan at the combine. He was also about 6’4.5 without shoes. While I had anticipated some of his combine numbers to be good, it definitely grabs your attention that he has the measurables to go with the athleticism.