Rookie UMPI Athletes Continue Playing Basketball in the County
After High School
Playing high school basketball in Aroostook County is a way of life. But rarely do county athletes go on to play in college for UMPI. Two rookie basketball players from local high schools just wrapped up a memorable season. First-year Hattie Bubar of the women’s team and sophomore Jace Rocheleau of the men’s team both went to high school in the County. Hattie went to Presque Isle High School. Jace attended Fort Kent Community School. Both players had great experiences playing basketball for their respective high schools.
Hattie Bubar fires up a three in a game her senior year at PIHS. Photo by: Dave Allen
Hattie played three varsity seasons for Coach Jeff Hudson. She made two appearances at the Cross Insurance Center for the state tournament. Hattie also was a starter her senior year. Her team finished as Aroostook County Runners-up in a COVID shortened season.
Jace made two appearances at the Cross Center. He became a 1000-point scorer during his senior season. “My favorite memory in high school was when I reached 1000. I needed four points going into the game against Southern Aroostook and ended up playing the best game of my life with 45 points,” Jace said.
Jace and Hattie were determined not to make their high school careers their peak. Both have gone on to play basketball at the NCAA level at UMPI.
“I wanted to challenge myself and see how big the difference was from high school to college. Basketball is like home to me, and I wasn’t ready to give it up,” Jace said. “I have always loved playing basketball. And when I was given the opportunity to play, I knew I could not pass on that opportunity,” Hattie said.
