Panguitch star accepts Utah's offer

Halie Sawyer was mulling over offers from colleges offering her volleyball scholarships when she got an offer to play basketball from the University of Utah.

"I didn't really expect (a Division I scholarship) from basketball," she said after verbally committing to Utah on Sunday. "It was basketball at the University of Utah or volleyball at UNLV, and I just feel more comfortable in Salt Lake City. The U. is somewhere I've always wanted to go to school."

As far as opting for hoops instead of volleyball, Sawyer has always been passionate about both.

"It didn't really matter which sport because I love both sports," she said. "They came and watched my game last week, and my coach said they wanted to me to redshirt. They called me at school the next day and offered me a full scholarship. I said, 'Are you serious?' I'm really, really excited."

Sawyer becomes the first female player from Panguitch High to go directly to a Division I program. Sawyer was the 1A MVP in both volleyball and basketball last year, and is averaging 22 points per game this season.

"She's probably the most versatile player I've ever coached," said Bobcat coach Curtis Barney.

Sawyer will visit the campus on March 1, but said she's glad to have the decision about which sport she'll play at what college settled.

"I'm excited it's over with," she said. "I know I made the right decision."

As for celebrating, she's waiting until the Bobcats finish the season this weekend with what she hopes is another 1A title.

"Then, after state and when it's all official," she said, "I'll celebrate."