The confidence Hoffman displayed in year one was not like most freshmen. And I believe it’s because of her defensive abilities. Most players are timid on the offensive side of the ball in their first year, and though she can impact the game on that end as well, her defense and playmaking were something she could hang her hat on, and it’s one thing every coach needs on the floor. Heading into this year, her offensive game will be a huge key to how competitive her high school program is, and as she gets even more comfortable in her varsity role, those big moments will start to turn into consistency.

Haylie is already showing her value at the high school level, securing a spot on varsity as just a freshman last season.

She has a well-rounded game, but defensively she can especially make a night difficult for opponents. She’s got amazing hustle, and will frustrate her offensive assignment. And her rebounding skills are already on another level; she has the length to corral a loose ball. And I saw her wrestle a couple of rebounds away from her opponents.

Haylie has the grind to be an all-around weapon for her prep team over the next 3 years.

Haylie’s confidence and skill seemed to only grow as the day went on. She’s got a great nose for the ball, and capitalizes on a lot of rebounds and putbacks.

Haylie is tough as nails in the paint, with an ability to disrupt shots and wrestle away rebounds. She scored 9 points in her final game of the weekend, largely aided by her work fighting for second-chance shots.

Haylie has an all-around skillset, where she’s also capable of bringing the ball up the floor when she needs to. She tells me that she enjoys being a leader on and off the court. She started varsity for University High last season, and is an up-and-comer for the class of 2029.