We continue our spotlight on players around the state of North Carolina, this time looking at a sophomore guard that was part of putting J.H. Rose high school on the map this year.
The Rampants finished their season with a 23-4 overall record, starting the season 12-0, and finishing 10-2 in conference play. One of the biggest contributors for head coach James Rankins was 2022 6’3 guard Aaron Murphy.
On the season, Murphy averaged 19.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, which included 16 20-point games. It was a season in which he was able to really make a name for himself and certainly deserving of recognition.
“It went really well for me,” Murphy said. “I improved a lot on both sides of the floor this year and that led our team to bond better this year. I wanted to prove to myself that I can make it and get better, closer to the next level of basketball. I showed heart every time I put myself on the court.”
Murphy showed that he has a unique ability on the court, describing his game more as a point-forward, someone that can drive and get to the basket but also get everyone involved and get on the boards. His skillset, his ability, and his balance on the court proved to be part of the winning recipe for J.H. Rose this year and recently earned him Third-Team All-State in the class of 2022 by Phenom Hoops.
However, Murphy is still looking to improve his game and continue to prove doubters wrong, showing that he can be one of the premier talents in the state of North Carolina.
“I just wanted everybody to feel me but the job is not done,” he said. “My mindset is to get better defensively and catch some coaches’ eyes.”
His recruitment hasn’t yet begun but that certainly could and should change with time. Murphy continues to focus on improving his overall feel for the game, working on his jumper, his lower body strength, and his defensive impact this offseason.
Check out what we had to say when Murphy attended the Phenom 150 camp last year, along with his highlights.
“He’s a big, strong wing/forward prospect with an excellent feel for the game and a versatile two-way skillset. Murphy is quite young, but already sees the game in such a mature way and effortlessly leads on both sides of the ball. He handles the ball with care and sees the floor very well, which allowed him to create for himself or others whenever he desired. Murphy showcased an efficient stroke from the perimeter and was a constant matchup problem for opponents. Next in his development process is working on moving without the ball, as it would likely help his spot-up ability around the perimeter. Coach Bernardi on Murphy: “Aaron is a natural leader. He talked and encouraged his team throughout the entire day. He is very talented from all three levels. Aaron is somewhat trigger-happy, but also a gifted passer when he wants to be. He has good physical tools and was a great leader.” Murphy has a strong chance to become a high-level prospect, especially if he continues putting in the necessary work.” – Phenom 150 Camp Evaluation
