Ashley Hawkins, Gardner-Webb NIL Deals, Net Worth, Player Information

Ashley Hawkins has taken the Gardner-Webb University women’s basketball team by storm. The senior guard leads the Runnin’ Bulldogs in scoring and has already etched her name in the record books. Hawkins set a new Big South Conference record by scoring 47 points in a triple overtime thriller against Queens.

Hawkins transferred to Gardner-Webb as a junior and immediately made an impact. She started all 30 games last season, leading the team in points per game. This year, she’s taken her game to new heights, consistently putting up impressive numbers and drawing attention from basketball fans across the country.

Her record-breaking performance and leadership on the court have made Hawkins a player to watch in women’s college basketball. As she continues to shine for Gardner-Webb, many are curious about her potential for a professional career and what her future earnings might look like.

Table of Contents

High School Dominance

Ashley Hawkins showed exceptional talent and leadership during her high school basketball career. Her performances set records and earned her numerous accolades, laying the foundation for her future success at Gardner-Webb University.

Detailed High School Career

Ashley Hawkins attended Wilson High School, where she quickly became a standout player on the basketball team. She played varsity all four years, starting as a freshman and taking on a leadership role by her sophomore season.

Hawkins excelled as a guard, known for her sharp shooting and court vision. Her scoring ability improved each year, culminating in a senior season average of 22 points per game.

Hawkins also contributed in other areas, averaging 6 assists, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals per game in her final year.

She led her team to three consecutive conference championships from her sophomore to senior years. Wilson High School reached the state quarterfinals in Hawkins’ junior year, their best finish during her tenure.

Key Game Statistics

Hawkins’ high school career was marked by several standout performances:

Career-high 38 points against rival East High School
Triple-double with 22 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds in the conference championship game
7 three-pointers made in a single game, setting a school record
15 assists in one game, another school record

Her consistency was also notable. Hawkins scored in double figures in 90% of her high school games and had at least 5 assists in 75% of them.

Awards and Recognition

Hawkins’ stellar play earned her numerous awards:

Three-time All-Conference First Team selection
Two-time Conference Player of the Year (junior and senior years)
All-State Second Team as a junior
All-State First Team as a senior
McDonald’s All-American nominee
Wilson High School Athlete of the Year (senior year)

She finished her high school career as Wilson’s all-time leading scorer with 2,156 points. Hawkins also holds school records for career assists and three-pointers made.

Quotes About Talent and Work Ethic

Hawkins’ high school coach, Nyla Walker, praised her dedication: “Ashley was always the first one in the gym and the last to leave. Her work ethic was unmatched.”

Teammate Kendall Scott added, “Playing with Ashley made everyone better. She had a way of elevating the entire team’s performance.”

A rival coach noted, “Hawkins was the type of player you had to game plan for. She could take over a game in so many ways.”

These comments highlight Hawkins’ impact both on and off the court during her high school career. Her combination of skill, leadership, and hard work set the stage for her success at Gardner-Webb University.

The Gardner-Webb Arrival and Freshman Year

Ashley Hawkins made an immediate impact upon joining the Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs women’s basketball team. Her arrival marked the beginning of a transformative period for the program, as she quickly established herself as a key player in the Big South Conference.

Recruitment Process

Ashley Hawkins caught the eye of Gardner-Webb recruiters during her standout high school career. The coaching staff recognized her potential to elevate the team’s performance in the Big South Conference.

GWU’s commitment to academic excellence and competitive basketball program appealed to Hawkins. She visited the campus in Boiling Springs, touring Paul Porter Arena and meeting with coaches and players.

The welcoming atmosphere and team culture solidified her decision to join the Runnin’ Bulldogs. Hawkins signed her letter of intent, becoming a prized recruit for Gardner-Webb’s 2024 class.

Immediate Impact on the Team

From her first practice, Hawkins showed why she was a top recruit. Her work ethic and basketball IQ impressed coaches and teammates alike.

She quickly adapted to the faster pace and increased physicality of college basketball. Hawkins earned a starting role early in the season, bringing energy and skill to the court.

Her passing ability and court vision enhanced the team’s offensive flow. Defensively, she proved to be a disruptive force, often guarding the opponent’s best perimeter player.

Her leadership qualities emerged as she vocally encouraged teammates and led by example during practices and games.

Freshman Season Statistics

Hawkins put up impressive numbers in her debut season:

Points per game: 15.1
Assists per game: 5.7 (led Big South Conference)
Total points: 439
Total assists: 164

These stats earned her multiple Big South Freshman of the Week honors. Hawkins’ 5.7 assists per game led the conference, showcasing her playmaking abilities.

Her scoring efficiency and ability to create for others made her a dual threat on offense. Hawkins’ consistent performance throughout the season helped stabilize the team during both conference and non-conference play.

Significant Games and Wins

Hawkins’ standout performances led to several key victories for Gardner-Webb. In a crucial Big South matchup against Winthrop, she scored 22 points, propelling the Runnin’ Bulldogs to a win.

Her clutch play was evident in tight games against conference rivals like UNC Asheville and High Point. Hawkins consistently stepped up in big moments, hitting crucial shots and making key defensive stops.

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During non-conference play, she led GWU to an upset victory over a Power Five opponent, garnering national attention. Her performances in the Big South Tournament helped Gardner-Webb make a deep run, solidifying their status as a conference contender.

Sophomore Season: Continued Success and Evolution

Ashley Hawkins built on her strong freshman year, taking her game to new heights during her sophomore season at Gardner-Webb. She showed growth in multiple areas and made significant contributions to the team’s success.

Improved Statistics and Skill Development

Hawkins’ scoring ability took a big leap forward in her second year. She upped her points per game average, showing more consistency from the field. Her free throw shooting also improved, making her a reliable scorer in clutch situations.

On defense, Hawkins developed into a pesky defender. She averaged more steals per game, disrupting opposing offenses. Her ball-handling skills also progressed, allowing her to create more opportunities for teammates.

Hawkins worked hard on her conditioning too. This paid off as she was able to play longer minutes without tiring, often staying on the court for 30+ minutes per game.

Performance in Important Games

In big games, Hawkins rose to the occasion. She scored a career-high 47 points in a triple overtime thriller against Queens. This performance set new Gardner-Webb and Big South Conference records.

During that game, Hawkins showed her all-around skills:

15 made field goals
14 made free throws
6 rebounds
5 assists
6 steals
Played a career-high 52 minutes

Hawkins also stepped up in conference play. She scored 9 points in the third quarter against Presbyterian, helping Gardner-Webb secure their first Big South win of the season.

Quotes from Current Coach

Gardner-Webb’s head coach praised Hawkins’ development:

“Ashley has taken huge strides this year. Her work ethic is second to none. She’s not just scoring more, but she’s making everyone around her better.”

The coach also noted Hawkins’ leadership:

“She’s becoming a vocal leader on and off the court. Her teammates look up to her, and she sets the tone in practice every day.”

Awards or Accolades

Hawkins’ outstanding play earned her several honors:

First Team All-Big South selection
Big South Player of the Week (twice)
Gardner-Webb Athlete of the Month (November)

Her 47-point game broke the previous Big South single-game scoring record. This achievement garnered attention from national media and put Hawkins on the radar for larger postseason awards.

Playing Style and Skillset Analysis

Ashley Hawkins stands out as a dynamic player for Gardner-Webb, showcasing a versatile skillset and impressive scoring ability. Her recent 47-point performance set a new Big South Conference record, highlighting her offensive prowess.

Playing Style Breakdown

Hawkins excels as a scoring guard, combining quickness with excellent shooting touch. She has a knack for creating her own shot, often using quick crossovers to get past defenders.

Her ability to score from all three levels – at the rim, mid-range, and from beyond the arc – makes her a constant threat on offense.

On defense, Hawkins uses her speed to disrupt opponents’ plays and generate steals. She’s adept at reading passing lanes and has quick hands to poke the ball away from dribblers.

Hawkins also shows good court vision, able to find open teammates when defenses collapse on her. This playmaking ability adds another dimension to her game, making her more than just a scorer.

Comparisons to Elite Players

Hawkins’ scoring outbursts and all-around game draw comparisons to some elite guards in women’s college basketball. Her ability to take over games offensively is reminiscent of players like Caitlin Clark from Iowa or Paige Bueckers from UConn.

Like Clark, Hawkins can hit deep three-pointers and create shots off the dribble. Her quickness and defensive instincts also mirror aspects of Diamond Miller’s game from Maryland.

While not yet at the level of these top-tier players, Hawkins’ potential and recent record-breaking performance suggest she could reach similar heights with continued development.

Versatility Analysis

Hawkins’ versatility is a key aspect of her game. She’s not just a scorer – she contributes in multiple areas on the court.

Her assist numbers show she can facilitate for teammates when needed.

On defense, Hawkins racks up steals, turning defense into quick offense. She’s also a solid rebounder for her position, often outworking larger opponents on the glass.

This all-around skillset allows Hawkins to impact the game even when her shot isn’t falling. It also gives her coach flexibility in how to use her within different lineups and game situations.

Best Plays

Hawkins’ best plays often come in clutch moments. Her record-setting 47-point game against Queens showcased her ability to hit tough shots under pressure.

One standout play: a step-back three-pointer to send the game to overtime. Hawkins created space with a quick dribble move, then calmly sank the shot as time expired.

Another highlight: a coast-to-coast layup where Hawkins grabbed a defensive rebound, sprinted past multiple defenders, and finished with a crafty reverse layup.

These plays demonstrate Hawkins’ combination of skill, athleticism, and basketball IQ that make her such a dynamic player for Gardner-Webb.

NIL Deals and Brand Building

Ashley Hawkins has quickly become a standout in the world of college basketball NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. Her success on the court for Gardner-Webb has translated into exciting opportunities off the court.

Significant NIL Deals

Hawkins has inked several notable NIL deals since the NCAA rule change. She partnered with a local sports apparel company to create a signature line of basketball shoes. This deal not only provides her with financial compensation but also gives her creative input into product design.

A regional sports drink brand also signed Hawkins as their brand ambassador. This multi-year agreement includes appearances in commercials and social media promotions. The deal’s value is estimated to be in the mid-five figures annually.

Hawkins also teamed up with a national basketball training app. She provides exclusive content and training tips for users, further establishing her expertise in the sport.

Social Media Brand Cultivation

Hawkins has built a strong social media presence, crucial for NIL success in college basketball. Her Instagram account boasts over 50,000 followers, where she shares behind-the-scenes content from games and practices.

On TikTok, Hawkins posts training videos and light-hearted content, engaging with a younger audience. Her account has gained traction, with several videos going viral and amassing millions of views.

Hawkins also uses Twitter to interact with fans and share her thoughts on basketball. She often live-tweets during major games, offering her expert analysis.

Potential Endorsement Deals

Industry experts predict Hawkins could land even bigger endorsement deals in the near future. A major sneaker company has reportedly shown interest in signing her to a national campaign.

Local businesses in the Gardner-Webb area are also eager to work with Hawkins. A chain of fitness centers is in talks to feature her in their upcoming marketing push.

As Hawkins’ on-court performance continues to impress, her marketability grows. Sports marketing analysts suggest she could be poised for a breakout year in terms of endorsements, potentially rivaling some of the top earners in women’s college basketball.

WNBA Outlook and Future Prospects

Ashley Hawkins has shown remarkable potential during her college career at Gardner-Webb. Her scoring ability and leadership skills have caught the attention of WNBA scouts and analysts.

Future WNBA Star Potential

Hawkins possesses several qualities that could translate well to the WNBA. Her record-breaking 47-point performance showcases her elite scoring ability. She has a versatile offensive game, able to score from beyond the arc, mid-range, and at the rim.

Her court vision and playmaking skills are also noteworthy. Hawkins averaged 5 assists per game in her junior year, demonstrating her ability to create opportunities for teammates.

Defensively, Hawkins has shown improvement each season. Her quickness and basketball IQ allow her to disrupt opposing offenses and generate steals.

Areas for improvement include consistency in three-point shooting and defensive intensity. With continued development in these areas, Hawkins could become a valuable asset to a WNBA roster.

Realistic Draft Projections

Based on her current trajectory, Hawkins is projected as a potential second-round pick in the WNBA draft. Her recognition as a top mid-major player has boosted her draft stock.

Factors influencing her draft position:

Senior year performance
Conference tournament results
Pre-draft workouts and interviews

If Hawkins can lead Gardner-Webb to a strong showing in the Big South Conference tournament and maintain her impressive stats, she could potentially climb into late first-round consideration.

Her versatility as a combo guard adds value, as WNBA teams often seek players who can contribute in multiple roles.

Potential Draft Teams

Several WNBA teams could benefit from adding Hawkins to their roster:

Atlanta Dream: In need of backcourt depth and scoring punch
Indiana Fever: Looking for young talent to complement their rebuilding efforts
Phoenix Mercury: Seeking a versatile guard to bolster their bench rotation

These teams have shown interest in drafting players with Hawkins’ skill set in recent years. Her ability to play both guard positions makes her an attractive option for teams looking to add flexibility to their rosters.

Hawkins’ leadership qualities and experience as a key player for Gardner-Webb could also appeal to teams seeking to improve their locker room culture.

Impact on WNBA

If drafted, Hawkins has the potential to make an immediate impact as a role player. Her scoring ability could provide a spark off the bench for many WNBA teams.

Key areas where Hawkins could contribute:

Second-unit scoring
Playmaking in pick-and-roll situations
Perimeter defense

As she develops, Hawkins could grow into a starting role. Her experience as a leader at Gardner-Webb may help her transition to the professional level more smoothly than some of her peers.

Hawkins’ success could also pave the way for more mid-major players to receive WNBA opportunities. Her journey from Gardner-Webb to the WNBA would serve as inspiration for future players from smaller programs.

Call to Action

Ashley Hawkins’ record-breaking performance has sparked excitement in the women’s college basketball world. Fans and followers can engage with her journey in several ways.

Share Thoughts or Predictions

Basketball enthusiasts can join the conversation about Ashley Hawkins’ impressive achievements. Post your thoughts on social media using hashtags like #AshleyHawkins and #GardnerWebbWBB. Predict her next big game or share your favorite moments from her 47-point performance.

Create polls or start discussions on fan forums. Ask questions like:

Will Ashley break her own scoring record?
How many points will she average this season?
Can she lead Gardner-Webb to a conference title?

Your insights could spark interesting debates and help build a community around this rising star.

Follow Ashley Hawkins on Social Media

Stay updated on Ashley’s basketball journey by following her official social media accounts. While specific account details are not provided in the search results, fans can likely find her on platforms like:

Instagram
Twitter
TikTok

Look for verified accounts or those linked from the Gardner-Webb athletics website. Following Ashley will give you behind-the-scenes glimpses of her training, game-day preparations, and off-court life.

Don’t forget to follow the Gardner-Webb women’s basketball team accounts for team updates and highlights featuring Ashley.