October 29, 2026 — Asa Montgomery has made it official: The five-star basketball prospect will be heading to Duke University next year. The Hillgrove High School senior announced his decision during a short signing ceremony in the high school's gym, surrounded by family, friends, and teammates. 

Montgomery, a Powder Springs native, said his campus visit to Duke made the decision feel right. The coaching staff showed him how he would fit into the program, and the university quickly began to feel like home. Despite opportunities to play high school ball elsewhere, Montgomery chose to remain at Hillgrove and finish his high school career as a Hawk.

"There's so many people supporting me here; just look at all the love in this gym," Asa said, pointing to all the people around him. "I want to finish strong with my team and my school, hopefully winning the state championship. We're going to keep our heads down and work in the best and hardest way we can to do that."

Hillgrove Head Coach Greg Moultrie praised Montgomery’s talent, character, and loyalty to the Hawks program. After years of coaching, Moultrie said Montgomery is one of the most talented players he has coached and expressed pride in seeing him earn the opportunity to play at Duke.

“First and foremost, I would like to thank him for being loyal to the program,” Coach Moultrie said. "Asa has been a great kid to coach. It doesn't matter whether I'm getting on him or praising him. No matter what I do, he accepts it and pushes hard to get better."

Coach Moultrie mentioned that in addition to competing for a region and state championship this season, he would love to see Asa earn Mr. Georgia Basketball and be recognized as a McDonald's All-American.

Montgomery credits his years at Hillgrove with teaching him toughness, perseverance, and how to work through adversity. He plans to carry those lessons into every practice and game during his final season, and then take them with him to Duke.

Hillgrove Principal Angela Stewart said Montgomery’s impact on the school extends well beyond the basketball court. She praised his humility, strong character, academic performance, and commitment to the people around him.

"He values his friends, family, and school community more than the attention that comes with his success," Principal Stewart explained. "His decision to return for his senior year reflects those priorities and has strengthened his connection with the school and the community that has supported him throughout his high school career."

"I'm so proud of his character; who he is and what he brings to our school. We're going to be following him for many years to come. We're expecting great things for him, and we want nothing but super success and excellence for his life," she concluded with a smile.

For Montgomery, the focus remains on the work ahead. With the support of his coaches, teammates, family, and community, he is determined to make his final season at Hillgrove one to remember.  As he prepares for the next chapter of his basketball career, one thing is already clear: He is Built for Beyond.

Congratulations Asa! We look forward to seeing where your talent and hard work lead next!