Future Sooners shine in McDonald's Game

[Jay C. Upchurch]

Oklahoma women’s basketball signees Amanda Thompson and Abi Olajuwon had impressive showings as part of the West Team, which won 80-76, in the 2006 McDonald’s High School All-American Game. The marquee high school all-star game took place at San Diego State’s Cox Center.

The OU coaching staff has been excited about Thompson all-around skills since she signed her National Letter of Intent and all of those dimensions were on full display in the all-star game. The Chicago native post game-high totals of nine rebounds, five blocks and four assists while playing 23 minutes off the bench. She also scored 11 points, which was the four highest total among participants.

Olajuwon, a 6-3 center, was a force in the paint. The Los Angeles native tallied eight points and five rebounds in 15 minutes of action. Olajuwon is expected to push for playing time and immediately add depth to OU’s front court, which already includes first team All-American Courtney Paris, All-Big 12 performer Leah Rush and sophomore-to-be Ashley Paris.

The game’s MVP award went to Jayne Appel, who scored 12 points, had seven rebounds and blocked two shots. Appel hit three consecutive shots midway through the second half to give the West a 51-47 lead.

The game was tied 11 times with seven lead changes. The East had a 34-31 lead at the half.

Thompson will also compete in the WBCA High School All-Star Game, which is being held this Saturday at Norheastern University in Boston, Mass. The game will not be televised. Thompson was a WBCA All-American, while Olajuwon was giving Honorable Mention accolades.

The McDonald’s Game will appear in its entirety on April 6 at Noon CT on ESPN2.

OU SID Report

[OUfan7]

Thanks for the update.

[RUSH LIMBAUGH is my clone!]

Next yr's womens basketball team will be FEARSOME!