Leslie Gutierrez '14 Recruiting Profile

My name is Leslie Gutierrez, a Senior at the Pojoaque Valley High School.  I have been playing basketball since I was in Kindergarten.  I first made my school basketball team when I was in the 4th Grade.  I was the only 4th Grader selected to play on the A-Team, which consisted of mainly 5th & 6th Graders.  Although, I was the shortest player on the team, I was the most aggressive and quick ball handler.  As years passed, I continued to work hard on improving my unique “Tough & Aggressive” defense and quick release shot.  I also learned to use my size and quickness to my advantage. 

I have brought strength to our defense and was often matched up with opponents’ key players and minimized their threat.   This year, I was the leader on my team.  As a Team Captain, Senior and Point Guard, I had to really step up and lead my team.  Although my team was young, we were able to accomplish a lot.  As a leader, I set the tone by leading the team in points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, and charges.  I am a uniquely well-rounded player who averaged 12 points, 9 rebounds, 9 assists and 6 steals per game.  I accomplished this by playing tough defense and by involving my teammates.  This year, I was often referred and known to play with heart.  I played hard every game because I wanted to complete my high school career on top.  I earned the honors of Holiday tournament MVP, All-District First Team and named to the NM North/South All Star Team.  

Academically, I am an Emerald Scholar with a 3.9 GPA and involve myself in my home/ school community.  I have participated in many Service Learning Projects and take pride in helping out.  I help engage other students to become active in some of my service learning projects.  I have worked with our NM Legislators in recognizing all of the Teachers from my School District; Initiated a Teacher Appreciation Campaign throughout my School District; Researched at Princeton University on the Protection of Sacred Sites and presented to Congressional Delegates and the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Now that my high school basketball has come to an end, I am looking forward to continuing my career in college.  When the seconds counted down during my last game, I came to appreciate my high school experience.  I also realized how much more important it is for me to play at that next level.  I'm ready!!!