Cumber Named 2020-21 Gatorade New Mexico Player of the Year

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.— The best in New Mexico chose to come to The University of New Mexico.

Incoming freshman Viané Cumber was named the Gatorade New Mexico Girls Basketball Player of the Year on Thursday for the second time, with the Sandia High School standout also earning the distinction in 2019.

During her senior season, Cumber averaged 26.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.5 steals, leading the Matadors to the Class 5A quarterfinals. In addition, Cumber earned 2020-21 MaxPreps New Mexico High School Girls Basketball Player of the Year.

Lobo fans will be able to watch Cumber starting this fall as the guard signed with UNM in November.

At the time of her signing, UNM head coach Mike Bradbury noted, “to add the Gatorade Player of the Year from New Mexico in this class is exciting. She brings versatility and size to the guard spot and her ability to score is tremendous. Her character and work ethic are also a huge asset.”

In the Gatorade announcement, St. Pius X High’s head coach Bree Rose echoed the sentiment stating, “Viané is, hands down, the best our state has to offer. Yes, because of basketball and how she represents herself on the court, but she’s also a kid who gives back. She’s one of a kind as far as I’m concerned.”

Established in 1985 to recognize the nation’s most elite high school student-athletes, the award also recognizes achievements beyond their athletic capabilities, celebrating academic achievement and exemplary character.

Cumber carried a weighted 4.09 GPA in the classroom and was a National Honor Society member, as well as made an impact in the community, volunteering locally with the Festival of Trees, serving as a youth servant at the Calvary Church and as a youth basketball coach, and by distributing groceries to low- income families on behalf of the Palo Duro Senior Center.

The two-time New Mexico Gatorade Player of the Year will be one of two on the 2021-22 roster, joining the 2016-17 winner Jaedyn De La Cerda.