Averaging just over 5 points a game for Goodhue this winter, Baartman’s game has been on the rise for some time now. The 5’11 freshman plays with a high-revving motor, consistently bringing energy and intensity on the defensive end. Over the weekend Aza also showed off her versatility as a scorer. The Minnesota Rise forward has made major improvements both as a ball handler and shooter, adding some range to her shot in recent months. Baartman is also able to create open looks for herself off the bounce, either barreling her way to the rim or stopping for a pull-up jumper in the midrange.

Baartman, a 5’11 forward from Goodhue, is the latest in a long line of impact players from that powerhouse program. A high-energy, fundamentally sound athlete, she brings a big frame, length, and a blue-collar mentality to every possession. Baartman defends well, crashes the boards with purpose, and isn’t afraid to take the big shot. She’s showed flashes of brilliance with consistent double-digit scoring efforts all spring and summer. A team-first performer who is always hustling, Aza generally keeps things simple but effective. Her motor, size, and basketball IQ make her one of the more complete and reliable forwards in the 2029 class.

Baartman has worked her way onto our radar over the past year or so. We’ve seen her become a consistent double-digit scorer for the Minnesota Stars , and watched her begin to carve out a role on the Goodhue varsity. At the Freshman Showcase, Aza did all the little things; she was aggressive on the boards, defended with energy, and didn’t turn down an open look. For the most part the 5’10 forward kept things simple, but plays like her wrap-around pass to a trailing teammate in transition showed just how good Baartman has the potential to be.