What If: Gatorade Player of the Year
Photo: 2021 Mia Hughes – Montana State Signee
Nars Martinez
In this article:
It is well documented that the high school season has been postponed and shortened if all goes well, but the talks of "who would have won" certain awards or honors have been rumbling around the state. The most prestigious individual award is Gatorade State Player of the Year. This award is given to selected "student-athletes for their athletic excellence, academic achievement and exemplary character." One female basketball player gets the award each year. The most recent winners are [player_tooltip player_id="20149" first="Hailey" last="Van Lith"] (2x) and Lexie Hull (2x). These two athletes currently start for Louisville and Stanford respectively. Who would have been honored for the 2020-2021 season is the big question?
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>The Front Runner</strong></span></h3>
2021 5’11 SG [player_tooltip player_id="20225" first="Talia" last="von Oelhoffen"] (Chiawana HS)
Times are certainly unique as the clear front runner for Gatorade Player of the Year is currently suited up and playing for the Oregon State Beavers in the Pac-12. A 4.0 student each year of her high school career. von Oelhoffen graduated early to join the Beavers. The statistics have always been there as she can be counted on for 25+ points to go along with 5+ rebounds and 5+ assists.
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Next Up Contender</strong></span></h3>
2021 5’11 PF [player_tooltip player_id="82922" first="Mia" last="Hughes"] (Woodinville HS)
The Montana State signee has statistically and team success wise, had a top two high school career along with von Oelhoffen for the entire senior class. Hughes would lead the favorites in the 4A class while putting up her usual 20+ points and 7+ rebounds per game to go along with her high academic scores. Would an undefeated season and 4A state title have been enough to take home Gatorade Player of the Year? We may never know, but Hughes has the ability to do so.
Access all of Prep Girls Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue Reading
Already a subscriber?
Log in
