Recruiting Report: Joe Heath
Mohave High School went 17-12 last season due in large part to the solid play of Joe Heath. Heath, a 6’3 SG, led the team in points and rebounds. Although that is impressive in and of itself, he averaged almost 20 points per game and 10 rebounds per game in doing it. In addition to his solid play, he brings a lot of leadership to Mohave and is one of the biggest reasons why Mohave is a contender to make the state tournament.
Joe Heath High School
Despite his strong play, Heath has managed to fly under many people’s radars. However, opposing teams know quite well what he is capable of. Last season, he was voted 2nd Team All-State for class of 4A. Further, his region voted him the player of the year.
Although he has had a lot of success, his favorite memory is playing in the state tournament as a sophomore. He remembers the journey well as his team “went on a 6 game win streak in section” which resulted in them making the tournament. Even though he managed to take home quite a bit of hardware last season, he stated, “I would do anything to get that playoff feeling back!”
This new season approaches, a lot of weight will be placed on his shoulders. He understands that and is not backing down. In fact, he has set very lofty goals for himself and this years team. He stated, “We want to win the region very badly as a team”. Further, he wants his team to “make the leap into the playoffs”. In order to do so, he will most likely have to repeat his final goal of being the “back-to-back Grand Canyon P.O.Y.”
In a time where transferring is on the rise due to seeking a better situation, Heath remained put. His dedication to his craft and his loyalty to his program should not go unnoticed. He has long understood the difficulty of getting noticed due to playing in Bullhead. However, he is a frequently seen face at showcases and events as he desperately wants to accomplish his ultimate goal of playing college basketball.
While many are worried about moving around, Heath has put his head down and worked extremely hard. In fact, I would consider him to be one of the hardest workers in the entire state for boys basketball. His reward has been the opportunity “to achieve goals and make friends”. Further, he has been blessed with a “fun” high school experience where he was able to “create bonds and work hard”.
Joe Heath College Interest
As far as scholarship offers are concerned, Heath believes he is extremely close to receiving one. However, he currently does not possess any. With that said, his list of schools interested is as follows: “[Arizona Christian University], Point Loma, Buena Vista University, Loras College, Roosevelt University”. The list continues as well.
One of Heath’s biggest concerns is that the school he chooses has one of his “preferred majors”. He would like to major in something along the lines of “athletic training, physical therapy, [or] coaching”. At the end of the day, the love for the game he demonstrates when he plays the game has carried over to the point that he wants to choose something that “keeps [him] involved with basketball in the future”.
After academics, Heath would like to go to a “great basketball program” who is “committed to wanting to push their athletes to their greatest potential”. Lastly, the amount of money out of pocket would come into consideration.
Joe Heath College Projection
As mentioned earlier, Heath is one of the hardest working players in the state. Further, I absolutely love the leadership and intensity with which he plays. Although he is used to getting a lot of touches and being a primary scorer, he seems like that type of player who cares about the team and knows how to buy into a role. His numbers on the glass reflect that and do not surprise me. He is the type of kid who does whatever is necessary to be successful on the floor. Thus, he crashes the glass with a desire to make game changing plays.
Currently, I see Heath’s best options being at the NCAA Division II or NAIA Division I level.