HOUSTON - The heartbeat of the Houston Heights women's hoops team is heading to UTEP.

"The relationship I have built with the coaches & team over the past several months really made UTEP feel like home," Heights point guard Gracelynn Alvarez, who verbally committed to the Miners on Sunday, said. "Coach Baker and his staff really made me feel that they are invested in helping me grow as an individual and a player.

"Playing at the next level means everything to me. I'm blessed to have my tuition paid for and not have my parents come out of pocket for it. Also, playing at the next level at UTEP is a stepping stone for me to prepare for playing overseas, which is what I plan to do after graduating UTEP."

Alvarez was a key part to Heights posting an impressive 26-9 overall record and going 11-1 in district play last season. During their 35 games, Alvarez averaged a team-leading 18.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 2.9 steals per game.