Today we announce the Hoop Group Up and Coming Player. This award goes to a college prospect with the most potential. The Up and Coming Player is someone I tell coaches, you better be recruiting her early. This year, that under the radar star is Manasquan's, Georgia Heine.

Last season Georgia Heine was named All-Freshman, First Team. It was a surprise to most, just like it was a surprise she started every game as a freshman. The 6'0" Heine reinforced her freshman season with an impressive summer playing for Team Rio. With her combined size and mobility, she began to grab High Major attention. Georgia's ability to handle the ball and make plays makes her the total package for coaches and separates her from other prospects. 

This past season with Manasquan, Georgia Heine continued to raise her stock with her versatility. She filled box scores across the board with 288 points, 193 rebounds, 74 assists, and 47 blocks on the season. But as a young player, what was most impressive was her composure. Her calm competitive demeanor was one of the reasons Manasquan remained ranked all season. 

These are the reasons Georgia Heine is a college prospect, but what makes her the Up and Coming Player of the Year is her unmatched work ethic. She is the ultimate gym rat who responds under pressure. You can coach her hard and push to improve. Her willingness and desire to get better is why nobody knows what level her game will end up. Despite needing a back brace and enduring physical stress on her body, Georgia performed and never used it as an excuse. For the first time in her athletic career, she will be healthy and pain-free. That thought should have every Division One coach smiling. 

Working on finishing. @CoachTinyGreen @Heine402A pic.twitter.com/vmMYHGHffx
— Georgia Heine (@GeorgiaHeine) September 27, 2019
 

There is something to be said for kids who get better every day, week, month, and year. These kids tend to have something in common; they always show up. Georgia Heine always shows up. She embraces competition and challenges herself to be the best version of herself. For example, at the beginning of the year, Georgia identified one part of her game she needs to improve, her shooting range. Last year she had 25 three's. This year in a big win over Rumson Fair-Haven, she knocked down three 3s. She is relentless, and it is this drive, stregnth, and focus that will take her talent to the next level. 

 The 2020 HOOP GROUP UP AND COMING PLAYER.... is on her way to greatness. Congratulations to GEORGIA HEINE!