McDonald’s All-Star
Pictured is a promotional image for the 2024 McDonald’s All Star Game. Photo courtesy of Hand-out for McDonald’s USA.
Lucas Johnson | Contributing Writer
When talking about high school basketball, something must be said for any player who is nominated to participate in the McDonald’s All-Star game, a dream shared by many players.
This dream became a reality for Jonathan Powell, a standout player for Centerville High School, who has been nominated for the 2024 McDonald’s All-American Games.
The All-Star game is scheduled to take place April 2 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. Powell’s nomination shows his dedication and skill, on and off the court. The selection process for the games starts with candidates being nominated by high school coaches, athletic directors, principals or members of the games selection committee. Each committee selects the top 24 girls and top 24 boys for their nominations.
Powell’s nomination places him in an elite group of athletes who have worked relentlessly to earn a chance to shine in this basketball showcase.
The McDonald’s All-American Games have featured players who have gone on to become icons and stars in the NBA and WNBA. The list includes Trae Young, Caitlin Clark, Jayson Tatum, Angel Reese and Kevin Durant, among others.
Powell’s nomination aligns him with the best in the sport. The anticipation for Powell had others observing his journey when it reached a peak Jan. 23, as the top 24 boys and top 24 girls were revealed on ESPN’s NBA Today TV program.
The highly awaited televised announcement was a moment of excitement for basketball fans across the country. While Powell had earned his nomination, his name was not called.
“Just getting the nomination was an honor,” Powell told this reporter in an interview in late January. “While I’m disappointed I wasn’t selected, to be considered among the top players in our nation is crazy, I’m grateful for the opportunity and will use it as fuel for the future.”
Centreville coach Brook Cupps emphasized the hard work and dedication Powell put in throughout the season. Not making the final cut for the McDonald’s All-Star game does not take away from the amazing accomplishment of receiving a nomination in the first place. The coach said.
Powell’s journey has gone on to inspire teammates, coaches, future players, and the entire staff at Centerville. Cupps commended Powell’s leadership on and off the court, showing the culture of resilience and teamwork within Centerville’s basketball program. While Powell may have not received a jersey for this year’s game, his poise after the decision is a testament to what type of person and player Powell is. The resilience shown in the face of disappointment shows his dedication to the sport.
The 2024 McDonald’s All-American Girls Game will air Tuesday, April 2 at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and the Boys Game will immediately follow at 9 p.m. ET, on ESPN.
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