Aaliyah Crump, a former standout guard at Minnetonka High School, is making waves on the national basketball scene as part of Montverde Academy’s powerhouse team. Known for producing elite basketball talent, Montverde, located in Florida, provides an environment that is pushing Crump and her teammates toward future Division I success. Her journey reflects not only her personal ambition but also the evolving story of Minnesota’s contribution to the national basketball stage.
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As the nation’s No. 1 ranked girls high school team, Montverde Academy offers Crump an opportunity to challenge herself daily. The team’s roster is stacked with talent, and every player is destined for Division I college programs. This competitive environment mirrors the collegiate intensity that Crump will face when she suits up for Texas next year.
“I’m challenged in practice as well as in games,” Crump said. “This is preparing me for the next level. I’m learning to adapt, improve, and thrive among the best.”
The 6-foot-1 guard is one of the top five recruits in the class of 2025. Her decision to leave Minnetonka, where she led her team to a state championship under Brian Cosgriff—Paige Bueckers’ former high school coach—was not an easy one. However, Crump recognized that Montverde’s national schedule and competitive environment would prepare her for her goals.
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A Path to Greatness
During her time at Minnetonka, Crump dazzled on the court, averaging 24.5 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and over two steals per game in her junior year. She played a pivotal role in Minnetonka’s Class 4A state championship run. Her dominance attracted the attention of top programs across the country, leading to her commitment to Texas over Duke and Ohio State last summer.
The transition to Montverde Academy, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and rigorous schedule, has been significant for Crump. She now practices alongside top-tier talent, including her roommate Agot Makeer, ranked just ahead of her in the 2025 class, and Saniyah Hall, the No. 1 player in the 2026 class. This competitive environment ensures that every practice and game demands excellence.
“Being here, it’s about pushing myself to be the best,” Crump said. “We’re all here to achieve big goals—winning national championships now and in college.”
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A Homegrown Legacy
While her future lies in Texas, Crump remains deeply connected to her Minnesota roots. She speaks fondly of her time at Minnetonka and continues to follow Minnesota basketball closely. The state remains a hub for emerging talent, with young stars like Maddyn Greenway and Tori Oehrlein stepping up as the next generation of standou
t players.
“I love seeing the talent coming out of Minnesota,” Crump said. “It’s amazing to know I’m part of a legacy of great players from our state.”
Minnesota’s basketball scene has been a consistent contributor to the national landscape, producing stars like Paige Bueckers, Jalen Suggs, and Chet Holmgren. Crump’s story adds to this rich history, but her move to Montverde signals her determination to take a different route to success.
The Montverde Experience
Montverde Academy is renowned for its ability to develop elite athletes. Its program includes both rigorous basketball training and an environment that mirrors the college experience. Crump and her teammates recently traveled to the Bahamas to face international competition, a trip that highlighted the team’s global reach and commitment to excellence.
“This place invests so much in us,” Crump said. “From the facilities to the staff, everything is designed to help us succeed.”
Crump’s daily battles in practice, alongside future Division I stars, sharpen her skills and prepare her for the challenges ahead. Her average of 8.9 points and a team-high 3.7 assists per game reflects her ability to contribute in multiple ways. More importantly, these experiences are building the foundation for her collegiate career.
The Road Ahead
As Crump continues to grow, her focus remains on the bigger picture. Her goal isn’t just to succeed at Texas but to make an impact at the highest levels of the game. Her journey from Minnesota to Montverde and beyond is a testament to her work ethic, determination, and passion for basketball.
“I’m excited about what’s next,” Crump said. “This is just the beginning. I know I’m ready for whatever comes my way.”
Crump’s story is an inspiration for aspiring athletes, a reminder that growth often requires taking bold steps outside one’s comfort zone. With her sights set on college and professional success, Crump is poised to become one of Minnesota’s most celebrated basketball stars.
