In our first segment of Meet The Hoopers, we caught up with Sage Hill & Why Not Premier’s freshman sensation Amalia Holguin. She talked about her 1st year in high school and her time playing with the late great Kobe Bryant. Here’s what she had to say.

How would you describe your game, what are strengths as a player?

I would say that I am a sharpshooter with a quick release, and I also love to get my team involved with some positive energy before and during the game. 

What areas of your game specifically would you still like to improve upon? 

I am working on my defense, and making sure that I set a good example for my teammates on and off the court. 

What was the biggest difference for you between Middle School Hoops and your season as a freshman in high school? 

I noticed that the pace is much faster in high school, and realized making sure to stay focused and to make sure to take advice from your leaders and apply it to the game. 

What are your goals for this upcoming season both Team and for you individually? 

Some of my upcoming goals for this season is to improve defense, increase assist percentage, and become a more vocal and leader on this team. I want to make it to the playoffs and win it, and with the goals we all have set I think we can accomplish that. 

Who are the people who have had the biggest impact on you as a player so far?

The biggest impact on me as a player has been my family, coach Bryant, my teammates, and the people around me that like me or don’t that keep me pushing and making me the player I am today. 

Who’s your favorite player, past or present male or female and why?

My favorite female player is A’ja Wilson on the Las Vegas aces because she is a true leader and is willing to make any sacrifices to win the game. My favorite men’s player of all time is Kobe. Kobe is not only the goat, he is a true leader off the court. Helping little girls’ dreams feel like reality and taking the women’s game to a whole new level. 

What are your favorite things to do when you’re not playing basketball? 

Some things I like to do when not playing basketball are hanging out with friends and family, listening to music, and trying new things.

What’s your favorite subject in school and why?

My favorite subject in school at the moment is English. I never really liked English until this year. I feel that English is very different from middle school to now, but I like it.

What would you like to do when you are all grown up and done playing basketball?

I want to help the women’s game and create a more equal inclusive environment. Whether it’s coaching, being a speaker to young girls and women etc… I want to help equalize women’s sports, and make sure young girls and women feel that they are heard and we see them just as much as we see and hear the men.

Knowing what you know now, if you could go back in time to before your Freshman season what advice would you give your younger self? 

If I were to go back in time to my freshman year, I would’ve made sure to take care of my body better, listen and take advice from the leaders on your team, and lastly to make sure I’m being a leader myself to make sure everyone feels involved in whatever we are doing.