Josh Jones is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Mountain Pointe High School for AZPreps365.com. 

As a south Phoenix kid, Mountain Pointe senior Aiden Price grew up in a basketball family and found himself playing football and lacrosse, but that changed quickly.

Price wrapped up his senior season on the basketball team as a shining star. He led the 5A San Tan region in scoring with 508 points and looks ahead to college to continue his success on the court. The all-state shooting guard is going through the recruitment process.

Alongside Price were two teammates, cousin Jayven Price and younger brother Amous Price. They both grew up playing basketball while Aiden was playing other sports. Aiden would go to their games but didn’t have interest in playing until his sophomore year when he realized football was not his fit because he was too small.

He began playing basketball his sophomore year and was immediately named a starter. During his junior year, Price averaged less than five points per game but held a unique responsibility. His contribution consisted of being a “three and D” player and providing energy.

Price made a significant leap his senior season and found a new role.

“He took on a bigger role this year and was asked to score a lot more and his stats improved drastically across the board,” said coach Kaimarr Price. “He was a stable, steady force and was the best player on the court most games.”

This past season, Price averaged 22 points per game and was the focal point of the offense. He helped lead his team to the playoffs after navigating a seven-game losing streak earlier in the season.

“I accomplished more than I had planned coming into the season,” said Price. “It was difficult having to take on the main role this year because I wasn’t used to being the main guy, but it was fun having to adapt and get thrown into the fire.”

Several Division II colleges have reached out to Price. The recruitment process is ongoing, and he is taking his time with his decision as he finishes out his senior year.

“I think he will definitely succeed (in college),” said Kaimarr Price. “The role he played before this year is more indicative of what most college freshmen play, so it's not like he's a kid that has gotten to shoot the ball a million times his whole high school career.”

The versatility of Price’s game has been eye-catching for his coach and teammates over the years. He has also gained recognition from his peers.

“I know that no matter where he goes, he’s not going to have any problem because his work ethic drives him to be good at anything he puts his mind to,” said Mountain Pointe junior Naomi Lawi. “Aiden has always had this sort of stride and no matter what obstacle is in his way, he has a tendency to not want to give up.”

Price has realized that what was once something he would only watch his family participate in, is now an opportunity to continue his education and keep playing the game he has grown to love.

“It’s amazing,'' Price said. "Growing up, I thought it would be for football but now for basketball, I’m just grateful."