"The Crafty Bucket-Getter with Bounce to Blow the Roof Off"

Easton Pugmire

@EastonPugmire

IG: @easton_pugmire_hoops

6’6, 185lbs, Class of 2027

Mountain Crest HS, UT

Easton is a crafty bucket-getter with violent vertical hops and a fearless attitude around the rim. A true above-the-rim menace, he lives to put defenders on posters and bring the crowd to its feet with powerful slams. He’s an explosive wing who thrives attacking downhill, finishing with authority, and making the paint his playground. But he’s more than just a high flyer; Easton’s smooth middy and improved three-ball make him a versatile scoring threat at every level. His energy is contagious, and his presence is felt on both ends of the court. When the lights are brightest and the game is tight, that’s when Easton turns it up and feeds off the competitive fire, elevating his game and his team.

Last season, Easton averaged 5.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, 0.6 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game, showing consistent production and flashes of game-changing ability. His biggest improvement was learning how to score more efficiently and impact the game as a defensive presence. He went from starting the season on the bench to earning a varsity starting role midway through the year, proving just how quickly his game is rising. His offseason focus is to become more confident with the ball under pressure, making crisp passes, and developing signature go-to moves when driving into traffic. He’s hungry to take that next step and become a more complete offensive weapon.

Easton plays AAU for Next Level Basketball (NLB) and is looking forward to SoCal Live this summer, an opportunity to showcase his game to college coaches and prove he belongs with elite competition. His first college offer came from the College of Southern Idaho (CSI), a powerful sign that his potential is being recognized. But he’s not satisfied; he’s locked in on making himself a true prospect, building his game, and earning respect across the country. His motivation is the fire of a close game and the trust from those who believe in him, his dad, his coaches, and the teammates he battles alongside.

When facing adversity, Easton finds a way around it, relies on his circle, and attacks every situation with grit. The best advice he has ever received is from his high school coach, who said, "Step on the floor with the mindset that 'I’m that guy.” That fuels his confidence, toughness, and edge.

Off the court, Easton enjoys traveling, spending time with his family, cooking, building, or making art. He finds joy in creating. That same creativity shows up in his game, as he attacks angles, elevates over defenders, and energizes every gym he steps into.

I assess that Easton’s athleticism, size, and scoring instincts make him a nightmare matchup on the wing. He brings above-the-rim explosiveness and developing shot-making, paired with a motor that impacts both ends. He’s a confident, high-upside athlete with a growing skill set that fits today’s fast-paced, physical game.

With a full offseason of work ahead and live events on deck, Easton is on track to catch serious attention. As his handle tightens and decision-making sharpens, he’s got the tools to evolve into a premier slasher and wing defender. Expect big things from him this upcoming season and even bigger ones beyond. Stay tuned for a breakout, y'all.