Aidan Carleson is emerging as a high-efficiency guard with two-way value for UC Santa Cruz
Carleson is a junior guard who has translated steady development into real production, opening the 2025-26 season with 9.0 points per game on 70.0% shooting while adding 1.5 rebounds and 1.0 assist per game.[6] His biggest differentiators are efficiency, improved ball skills, and defensive impact: he was described as a reliable shooter who made major gains in confidence and overall guard play, and he earned co-Defensive MVP honors in one of California’s top leagues.[2] He also showed earlier stat leadership as a high school player in California and the Central Coast Section, suggesting a player who competes and fits winning roles.[1]
