Junior Wing Preston Merrick has been on division one college radars for the better part of high high school career to this point, and for good reason. A powerfully built 6-foot-5 guard who can put the ball on the floor and attack the rim at a high level, as well as defend anywhere along the perimeter, it’s easy to see how his game translates to the next stage. This year at Hotchkiss has been an important one for Merrick.
“My High School season was definitely the best one yet. My all around game has improved and I learned how to balance and utilize most of my attributes. Not making the playoffs this year has fully changed my mindset and I learned that every win matters. Attention to detail is also very important to me now because it can change the game significantly.” he said.
Not making the playoffs is clearly fueling Merrick to make that next jump as a player. While this year was a showcase of his improved shot from beyond the arc, Merrick knows there’s plenty of more work to be done.
“I am working on becoming a true combo-guard. My handle is the most important thing to me since my jump shot has come along and scoring in the paint has been my strong-suit since I was young. I want to make a statement this AAU season. Winning and showcasing my skills is the most important thing to me, but I also want to have fun and enjoy it.” Merrick said.
With the high school season over, the talented guard turns his focus to AAU, where he will suit up with the NY Jayhawks on the MADE Hoops Circuit. The move to the MHC provides a new challenge and opportunities for the Connecticut swingman
“I’m excited to play against some good competition and hopefully win the whole circuit. A successful AAU season would be winning and getting the recruitment I am looking for.” he said
There are already a number of programs involved with his recruitment, something that should continue to pick up as more schools put an increased focus on recruiting 2026. He currently holds offers from Eastern Carolina, Fairfield, Holy Cross, Bryant, and UAlbany. Marist, Stanford, Syracuse, Holy Cross, Rice, Yale, Harvard, Columbia, Bucknell, Iona, & Loyola (MD) have all reached out to express varying levels of interest and have made a point of staying in touch with the tough and talented wing.
Look out for Merrick as he looks to establish himself as one of the premier perimeter players and help NY Jayhawks win their first MHC crown in the process.
