"The Small-Town Storm: Built from Grit, Fueled by Fire"

Noah McMahan

@noah_Mcmahan

6’6”, 187lbs, Class of 2027

North County High School (MO)

When Noah steps on the court, the energy shifts. He plays with relentless passion that can’t be taught. Every rebound, every dive for a loose ball, every hustle play has his fingerprint on it. He’s the definition of a high-energy force, a player who thrives on effort and execution. Noah isn’t just a scorer but a competitor who does all the little things that win games. Whether he’s gobbling up rebounds, raining shots, or muscling his way to the rim, he leaves nothing in the tank.

After averaging 8.3 points and 7.1 rebounds as a varsity sophomore, Noah exploded during the AAU fall session, averaging a jaw-dropping 29.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. That kind of jump doesn’t happen by luck; it's built through grind, hunger, and endless hours in the gym. His game has evolved in every aspect, from confidence and shot selection to pace and decision-making. He’s not just playing at a high level; he’s dominating with purpose.

Noah's versatility makes him a matchup nightmare. He can stretch the floor, finish through contact, and attack defenders off the bounce. His court vision allows him to set up teammates effortlessly, and his motor never slows down. On defense, he’s learning to guard quicker players, a focus that shows his commitment to growth as he prepares for the next level. Coaches can expect a player who will scrap for rebounds, sprint the floor, and impact every possession. He’s unselfish, coachable, and willing to do whatever the team needs to win.

What fuels Noah is deeper than stats or highlights. Coming from a small town with limited exposure, he plays every game with something to prove. That chip on his shoulder drives him to outwork everyone in the gym and make sure his name is known. When facing adversity, he locks in, slows the game down, and finds ways to contribute. His mindset is to want it more than anyone, every single time.

Off the court, Noah enjoys time with family, quiet moments, and the grind of constant improvement. Basketball isn’t just what he does; it’s who he is. It’s the escape, the focus, and the fire that defines him.

I assess that Noah is the kind of player college programs dream of, tough, disciplined, and wired to compete. His combination of size, versatility, and effort makes him a difference-maker on both ends. The way he rebounds, attacks, and creates for others shows maturity beyond his age. With his relentless mindset and expanding skill set, he’s on a fast track toward becoming one of Missouri’s breakout prospects.

Expect Noah to turn heads this season. His hunger, work ethic, and all-around game will carry him to new heights as he chases the season he’s been working for. He’s built for the grind as a blue-collar, fearless, and ready to take over. From small-town roots to big-time results, this is a player built for the moment, and the moment is now.