Seton Hall lands 2026 four star Darien ‘PayDay’ Moore

By CHARLIE PARENT

Darien ‘PayDay’ Moore, a four-star sophomore guard out of Catholic Central (NY.), has committed to Seton Hall, he announced on X Tuesday.

The 6-foot-2 Moore is regarded as one of the top talents north of New York City and best scorers in the state. He chose the Pirates over Siena, Fairfield, UMass, Bryant and hometown program Albany.

“As a kid, I always liked Seton Hall and I love the Big East Conference,” he told reporters after scoring 41 points Tuesday night “When I went there on a visit, I was watching the game and predicting myself in that situation. Coach Shaheen Holloway and all the coaches are a good coaching staff. I’ve always liked the way Coach Holloway has coached and I’m happy he offered me.”

He added of his 41-point night: ““Definitely a big motivation for sure to showcase my talents and show the hard work I’ve put in and definitely show the coaches at Seton Hall that I’m a hardworking player and I can do the job. “Today was a dream come true. I always dreamed of playing Division 1 basketball and I worked hard for it and I’m glad I have the opportunity to play division one basketball.”

Moore is the first commit in Seton Hall’s class of 2026. The team has five offers out for point guards and get one of their guys early in the cycle. The Pirates have also been in for in-state five-stars Chidi Nwigwe and Jayden Hodge. Bergeron Catholic wing Julius Avent has received an offer from the Pirates as well.

“Talented, versatile gritty guard [who] comes from Jim Hart’s City Rocks program,” one Division 1 head coach familiar with [Moore’s] game told ZAGSBLOG, adding that he thinks Moore can reclassify up to 2025.

“He is built to be an impactful Big East guard. Kid lives in the gym. Good early get [who] will be a name this summer [on the summer circuit].”