K,
Thanks for the pics.. So, since your pool is only half full, I assume you have the valves set to pull water from the main drain only. Water poured into the pump basket will quickly flow backward into the pool through the main drain as the water level is way below the equipment pad. I think they call it gravity...
I recommend you fill the water up to allow water to enter from the skimmers also and see if that makes it easier to prime.
But, generally, when a pump will not prime it is because of an air leak at the pump basket lid or, in your case, at the PVC union right in front of the pump. Suggest inspect the O-ring in the union and make sure it has plenty of "pool lube". Then do the same for the gasket on the pump basket lid. I've had this same pump and the pump lid gasket can get crushed out of shape pretty easy.
After your inspection, turn the pump on while at the same time running a garden hose (on low) over the union and pump lid. If they are leaking air the water from the garden hose will fill the leaking area and cause the pump to prime.
Give that a shot and let us know what happens.
If the pump motor is running, I doubt that the pump itself is bad.
Thanks,
Jim R.