The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Gotham Burger would like to recognize 13-year-old Yavneh Academy eighth grader Evie Gutlove as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. Evie is known around the league as the defensive specialist, relied upon to shut down the opponent’s top scorer or pressure the ball handler. Her best basketball games have come in the Mitch Gross Basketball League. One of her first baskets was a game-winning put, back in fourth grade. She was a starter and key contributor the following year when her team went undefeated and won the championship. She was also the MVP of the championship game. In sixth grade she was a starter on a team that made it to the semi-finals. Last year her team also had a strong late season push and advanced far into the playoffs. Perhaps her best offensive game was the semi-final game of this year’s MGBL playoffs, scoring 21 points. Her MGBL coach (and father) Michael Gutlove told the JLNJ, “What impresses me the most about watching Evie play team sports is how often she supports and encourages her teammates. I’m very proud of her accomplishments on and off the court.”

Evie congrats on being recognized as Sportstar of the Week.

Who our role models?

My parents because they always help me when I need them.

Who is your favorite professional athlete?

Carmelo Anthony.

What is your earliest sport memory?

Playing sports outside with my dad.

What is your favorite sports memory?

Winning MVP in the fifth grade MGBL championship game.

Any funny sport related stories?

Falling on the court (all the time).

What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?

Being with my friends.

What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?

Knowing that I finally accomplished my goal.

The Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week will receive a $10 gift certificate to Gotham Burger. Please send nominees for next week’s Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].