Get ready for an exciting announcement that will have basketball fans buzzing! Mayenabasi Akpan, a true force to be reckoned with, is making waves in the college basketball world.
This talented young athlete from South Medford has just revealed her plans to continue her basketball journey at San Diego State. But here's where it gets interesting: Akpan, standing tall at 6'2", has become a dominant presence in the paint, striking fear into opponents across Oregon.
Her breakout season in 2023-24 was nothing short of remarkable. As a sophomore, she led South Medford to an impressive 26-3 record and the Class 6A state championship. In her very first game at the Chiles Center, Akpan put up an incredible double-double, scoring 19 points and grabbing 18 rebounds. Through the state championships, she averaged a staggering 17 rebounds per game, showcasing her dominance on the boards.
The 2024-25 season saw Akpan continue her stellar performance, guiding the Panthers to a 22-6 record. Even in defeat, she shined, recording another double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds in the state quarterfinals against Tualatin.
Akpan's talent hasn't gone unnoticed. She earned all-state honorable mention as a sophomore and first-team all-state selection as a junior, solidifying her status as one of Oregon's top players. And it's not just basketball where she excels; Akpan is also a standout volleyball player, earning first-team all-state honors as a middle blocker and outside hitter.
With offers from Utah and Santa Clara, Akpan had options. But she chose San Diego State, a team that finished the 2024-25 school year with a 25-10 record. The Aztecs had a strong showing in the Mountain West, going 11-7, but fell just short in a thrilling triple-overtime conference championship game against Wyoming.
And this is the part most people miss: Akpan's commitment to San Diego State adds an intriguing layer to their women's basketball program. With her size and skill, she has the potential to be a game-changer, and fans will be eagerly anticipating her impact on the court.
So, what do you think about Akpan's decision to head south? Will she lead San Diego State to new heights? Let's discuss in the comments and share your thoughts on this exciting college basketball commitment!
