Player Spotlight: Amaya Blake (2022)
The class of 2022 is simply loaded with talent, especially at the PG/G positions. One of those players looking to make a name for herself is 5’8 combo Guard Amaya Blake. During her freshman campaign, Amaya ran the point for…
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Continue ReadingThe class of 2022 is simply loaded with talent, especially at the PG/G positions. One of those players looking to make a name for herself is 5’8 combo Guard Amaya Blake. During her freshman campaign, Amaya ran the point for her Platte County Lady Pirates squad. Leading the team in scoring with 15.9 points per game, along with 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals.
Photo courtesy Michelle BlakeAs a 4.0 GPA student, Amaya has strong interest from UMKC, Wichita St., and UCM. With the likes of Missouri and Drake in attendance during summer ball. Her excellence in the classroom easily transfers onto the court. Amaya is growing into a floor general early in her career. Her high basketball IQ and solid fundamentals have allowed her to perform well at the point. A Strong shooter both off the dribble and in catch and shoot situations, Amaya is hard to deal with in the half-court. She is a consistent mid-range shooter working to increase her shooting range. Her handles are tight and she can get to any spot on the floor at will. Amaya is a solid on-ball defender who can turn a steal into a fast break at any time.
A willing passer that uses her shiftiness off the dribble to make plays for her teammates both in the open floor and in pick and roll situations. Her energy on defense and willingness to improve her lateral quickness will allow her to be more comfortable communicating on the defensive end.
A great test of a player’s abilities is to play AAU ball. Amaya did just that running with Eclipse KC 16U Blue Star squad. Coached by Coach Joe Erskine and playing on the USJN Circuit. Amaya was able to shine during the St. Louis Gateway Challenge this past May. Earning a spot on the 16U All-Tournament team with her solid all-around play. During this same summer, Amaya received an applicant invite to the USA Basketball trials in Colorado Springs, CO, as well as John Lucas’ Top 160 Camp in Houston, TX.
“Amaya possesses an internal drive and will to score. Her demeanor remains consistent on the court, showing little emotion when negative things happen on the court. She is also very good at drawing fouls and getting to the free throw line”, says Coach Strobbe.
We have noticed that this crop of players in the class of 2022 is as gifted as any in the past. Each of these players has that ‘IT’ factor that helps them showcase their gifts.
“The biggest attribute that sets Amaya apart from any other player I have coached is her passion and drive. She constantly wants to get in the gym and work on her shooting and dribbling. She attends every open gym and never misses a practice or game. She is reliable and wants to get better. Amaya is also a great student and teammate. Always displaying her confidence, consistency, and drive.”
Amaya has definitely put the work in to develop her game to this point. This upcoming season, she will use her skills to help her Lady Pirates make some noise.