Washington can easily be overlooked when it comes to mainstream recognition in basketball, but the state has a proud history of developing high level talent year after year. Some of the state’s most talented players have historically been left off the final McDonald’s All American roster. The rosters on the boys and girls’ McDonald’s All American teams are heavily favored for east coast players, but it is still an honor to even be nominated. Eight girls have been nominated for the 2019 McDonald’s All American game for this year.
2019 McDonald’s All American Nominees:
Aspyn Adams, 5’8, G, Mt. Spokane HS- The most decorated shooter in Washington high school basketball history is trying to add a state ring to her impressive resume. She has led the GSL scoring, set multiple state and school records for three point shooting and signed her full ride to Loyola Marymount University. A 3A title is the only thing left to accomplish for the star senior.
Jacinta Buckley, 6’0, W, Lewis and Clark HS- The 3-time adidas All-American has been a consistent presence at Lewis and Clark, dating back to her freshman year. Jacinta is 20-10 threat every time she steps on the floor and a willing passer. She’s a regular at the 4A state tournament and it appears to be no different this year. She will be headed to UNLV following her senior year.
Belle Frazier, 6’0, G, Peninsula HS- The reigning Class 3A South Sound Conference Most Valuable Player has put Peninsula girls basketball on the map. Her versatility on the floor is really impressive and she has gotten better every season. She’s helped position Peninsula as a legitimate top 10 team in 3A and will try to make some noise come playoff time. She has signed her LOI to Portland State University.
Cassidy Gardner, 5’8, G, Prairie HS- The high IQ guard is the second nominee signed to play for Portland State University. Her shooting ability and court awareness from the guard position has helped Prairie to a number two ranking over half way into the season. A 3A state title is within grasp for the lead guard.
JaQuaya Miller, 6’4, P, Kentridge HS- One of Washington’s best post players is a well-deserved nominee. She already owns one 4A ring from her sophomore season and Kentridge is the favorite to win again in her senior year. She is a willing passer and tough to handle on the low block when she’s looking for her own shot. She will stay home for college ball and attend the University of Washington.
Emily Nelson, 6’1, F, Mt. Spokane HS- The center-piece to number one 3A Mt. Spokane’s attack. Emily is a blue-collar post player that does all of the little things to help her team win. She truly seeks wins over stats, which is refreshing. The strategy has worked well so far, as the Wildcats are 15-0 and one of the best teams in Washington regardless of class. The senior post has signed her LOI to Saint Martin’s University.
Brooke Walling, 6’3, F, Prairie HS- This left-handed forward can hurt opposing teams on the inside with her 6’3 frame, but she also has enough skill to stretch the defense. She is the number one mismatch concern for teams facing Prairie and they will be a tough out in the state tournament. Brooke will be playing at Fresno State University next season.
Brynna Maxwell, 6’0, G, Gig Harbor HS- The reigning 3A state champion and 3A state tournament MVP has carried the momentum into the 2018-2019 season. She has multiple 30 plus point games, a game winner and her team is top 10 in 3A. The future Utah Ute has a her sights set on defending the state championship and it won’t be easy, but she is one of the few players that will be up for the big task!
Other notes:
– Something in the water? Belle Frazier and Brynna Maxwell are both Gig Harbor natives. Jacinta Buckley, Aspyn Adams and Emily Nelson are all Spokane kids. Brook Walling and Cassidy Gardner are both from the Prairie, WA area. The lone wolf in her region is JaQuaya Miller from Kent, Washington (South of Seattle).
– Rankings matter, usually. McDonald’s American committee members typically use their vote on the most highly ranked players in the country, starting with number one and on down. 24 girls make up the “East” and “West” teams. There are some cases where players ranked outside of the top 25-30 make the team. 2015 Deja Strother (Inglemoor HS) was ranked 48th by ESPN and made the game. No player in Washington’s 2019 class are ranked in ESPN’s top 100.
– The final rosters will be set on January 24th at noon, west coast time.
