There aren't a whole lot of Texas story lines in the 2011 McDonald's All-American Game, but there are a few. Myck Kabongo continues Rick Barnes' new Canadian pipeline as he will be the lone Texas Longhorns commitment in the game. Kabongo comes to the Longhorns via Findlay Prep in Toronto, and it's really a shame he was never featured in Degrassi. Here's what Dave Telep, Paul Biancardi and the company at ESPN have to say about him:
Biancardi's breakdown: He's a one-man fast break who shows shades of former Longhorn T.J. Ford in terms of being a true point guard and floor general. He understands how to make guys better, is excellent in the pick-and-roll and always makes the right read. Kabongo always brings his vivacious personality and wears his emotions on his sleeve.
Telep's take: He's been on championship AAU teams and powerhouse prep clubs. However, his best work came as the leader of the 2010 NBA Camp. Arguably the top performer at camp until a fever took him out of action, Kabongo woke up as many campers as he could every morning for optional 7 a.m. workouts. Months later, he handled a decommitment and subsequent recommitment to Texas with class on ESPNU.
The lone prospect in the game that actually hails from Texas is Dallas' LeBryan Nash, who has committed to the Oklahoma St. Cowboys. Other than having a name that seems like LeBron James and Steve Nash mushed together, apparently he's also a pretty good player. Why he'd choose to go to Oklahoma State is confusing, although scientists do think Dallas could be considered a part of Oklahoma at this point. Here's the ESPN breakdown on him:
Biancardi's breakdown: Nash is possibly the most physically gifted player in the McDonald's All-American Game. His explosiveness, power, strength and athleticism make him hard to stop once he gets in the paint with the drive or the post-up. The future Cowboy also gets rebounds out of his area and has an improving jump shot.
Telep's take: If there's one thing we know about Nash, it's that he's got style and flair. Most kids announce their college choice by donning a baseball cap. Not Nash. Live on ESPNU, Nash busted out a bright orange 10-gallon cowboy hat and played as though he had a pair of six shooters, then committed to Oklahoma State.
Check out the entire 2011 McDonald's All-America Roster here, and then think about how good Kentucky will be next year and how unsurprising it is that Austin Rivers is going to Duke.