In her first year as a centerpiece of a team, Rachel leaned into her strengths and delivered. She consistently took open looks from deep, ran the floor in transition, and defended multiple positions. That well-rounded production gives her plenty to build on as she heads into summer competition.

Rachel Hilliard Rachel Hilliard 5'11" | SG/PF Smoky Hill | 2027 State CO has emerged as a key leader for the Mountain Vista Golden Eagles girls basketball team this season, pacing the squad in scoring with 9.1 PPG and leading in rebounding at 5.5 RPG. Hilliard is also a force defensively, ranking first on the team with 2.7 BPG. On the offensive end, she’s shooting around 40% from the field and 25% from downtown. With exceptional scoring, rebounding, shot blocking, and defensive presence, Hilliard has been instrumental in Mountain Vista’s successful campaign in her junior year.

Her ability to play multiple positions allows her to create mismatches any where on the floor. She can score on the wing or in the post while also being a defender at both spots. That versatility makes her a must have in her team’s lineup.

Rachel has the ability to change her role each game depending on exactly what her team needs. She stays levelheaded and doesn’t force the action, instead focusing on winning plays. Whether that means scoring, defending, or doing the little things, she handles her role with purpose.

Rachel was one of the toughest matchups at camp, combining her ability to shoot, rebound, and defend multiple positions. She attacked with confidence finishing plays and crashing the boards. What stood out was her unselfishness willing to make the right play for her teammates. Rachel’s team-first approach makes her the kind of player who can fit into any lineup.

This sophomore is exciting to watch. Playing a transfer season, she didn’t let that stop her from getting it done on the court. Hilliard has a wingspan that elevates her game at her SG position. She uses her length and power on offense to get around her defender for easy buckets. She is confident with the ball in her hands and can be counted on to help bring the ball up the court under pressure and keep the offense flowing for quality scores. With the ball in her hands, Rachel can score from the wing, or the high post. She has the skills to also play with her back to the basket making her a true triple threat. On defense, look for Hilliard to get in stance and defend in the full court and in half court pressure. She is agressive on the boards, using her length to snatch rebounds even over taller post players. Hilliard will be a key for Mountain Vista to continue their on court success in the future.

Rachel is a graceful powerhouse. She is strong in the paint, battling for buckets and rebounds on both ends. With her back to the basket, she can muscle the defense to her scoring spots, or use her skillful footwork to go right around them. Facing the rim, she can hit from mid-range, take the defense to the hoop, and even hit from three point range, making her a defensive nightmare. She becomes a nightmare for the offense when she is on defense. Her long wingspan allows her to cover ground and force steals and traps. She also nabs rebound after rebound in the paint. She isn’t afraid to get physical with taller post players, keeping her solid in the paint. With Hilliard becoming a full-time varsity player after transferring to Mountain Vista, the exciting Golden Eagles will make a strong post season run.

Watching Hilliard makes you say, what can’t this sophomore do? Her wingspan alone makes her a threat on offense and defense. She gets to the basket easily and finishes strong at the rim like a post, but will knock down her mid-range and 3 pointers with guard precision. Rachel’s handles on offense give her the advantage over taller players while her court vision and efficient passing skills keep her guard-like and increase her usefulness. Defensively, Hilliard is just as versatile. Her quickness and footwork allows her to be involved in traps and steals in the open court and on the wings. And her size gets her stops and rebounds in the paint. With Hilliard transfer time expiring just before playoffs, Mountain Vista will make an impressive run into the post season.

Rachel Hilliard Rachel Hilliard 5'11" | SG/PF Smoky Hill | 2027 State CO makes the most of her opportunities in the paint, and she tenaciously chases and secures rebounds. Hilliard moves off the ball often and can create space for herself from anywhere on the floor. Defensively, Hilliard is disciplined and consistently getting stops for her squad.

Rachel, new to Mountain Vista, is poised to shine with her offensive versatility and presence in the paint. She brings solid shooting, ball-handling, and paint scoring, making her a reliable option from multiple spots on the floor. Rachel’s skills will be key as Mountain Vista pushes for success in her debut season.