It was a special day at Lift for Life Academy on Tuesday as three members of the Hawks’ girls basketball dynasty announced their college commitments before family, friends and classmates in the school auditorium.
Nationally ranked point guard Amaya Manuel announced her commitment to the University of Tennessee of the Southeastern Conference. Her twin sister, Cara Manuel, committed to Tennessee State University, while standout forward Rian Lenox announced that she will continue her academic and basketball career at Lincoln University in Jefferson City.
Amaya Manuel has been a driving force behind Lift for Life’s success, helping lead the Hawks to state championships in 2024 and 2025 while earning All-State honors. A knee injury sidelined her during the team’s 2026 state-title run, but she returned during the summer to help the Missouri Phenom 17U EYBL squad reach the national championship game. She is currently ranked No. 1 in Missouri’s Class of 2027 by Prep Girls Hoops.
Cara Manuel also played a key role in the Hawks’ championship teams in 2024 and 2025. Before an injury shortened her 2026 season, she averaged 13 points in seven games and established herself as one of the area’s top young guards.
Lenox, a 5-foot-10 forward, is regarded as one of the leading rebounders in the St. Louis area. As a junior, she averaged 10.7 points and 11.1 rebounds while helping Lift for Life capture its third consecutive state championship.