The New Heights program in New York, in addition to being an excellent learning environment, is also home to some of the best young basketball talent in the state.  One of its rising stars is 6’8 power forward Ashton Pankey.

Pankey had a great showing at the GBOA East tournament back in May, including a dominating 18-point 10-rebound performance in the quarterfinals against the NY Panthers.  His aggressive play has continued thereafter, highlighted by nabbing MVP honors in the underclassmen All-Star game at the Reebok All-American Camp in Philadelphia.

New Heights 2010 Head Coach Kimani Young is confident is Ashton’s abilities as well stating, “Ashton’s play off the glass gets us going.”  Ashton loves the experience he’s receiving as well as his teammates play this summer.

Next season Ashton will be transferring high schools and will be coached by legendary basketballer Bob Hurley.  Pankey anticipates next year and stated “I want to work on my handles because I want to become a more versatile player.  I don’t really like playing inside all the time, so I want to work on my outside game a little.”

Colleges are taking notice of Pankey’s rising skills as well.  Currently making themselves known are Syracuse, Kentucky, Virginia and Virginia Tech.