It is not often that 5A teams make the very rural trek to Blackville-Hilda for this tournament. White Knoll did just that and played its first game of this year’s Hawk Invitational against 3A Swansea. It may not have been the best played of games, but Hayes displayed what she could get accomplished with a 22-point performance. The junior guard and team captain displayed leadership capabilities, the ability to handle the rock amongst opposing defenders and proficiency with a midrange jump shot. Hayes also is aware of the game being played on contact and has no problems getting to the free throw line.

Hayes assumes team captaincy duties for the Timberwolves and can play a variety of positions when she is on the floor. While Hayes can find times as a two, she will also put forth productive minutes as a three. Hayes will try her hand at the 3-pointer and she can play lockdown defense on whoever she is guarding. She approaches the game with a fearless attitude as she displays when she drives to the rim even against a number of opposing defenders. Impressive handles, creative finishes at the rim and the ability to cut to the rim away from the ball are other attributes to her overall game. Hayes tallied 15 points in a dominant win over Irmo.