By ADAM ZAGORIA
The McDonald’s All-American Game won’t be held in 2021 due to the pandemic, but McDonald’s will announce the 48 players — 24 girls and 24 boys — on the final rosters later this month.
The Jordan Brand Classic is also expected to be canceled for a second straight year due to the pandemic.
The selection committee said it “will honor the 2021 class through a virtual celebration. This decision was made in the interest of protecting the health and safety of student athletes, their families and event staff. However, being named a McDonald’s All American is about so much more than the game; it is a once in a lifetime achievement for high school seniors.”
“Even during an unprecedented year, we were so impressed seeing high school athletes continuing to celebrate the game we all love, while making an impact both on and off the court,” said Joe Wootten, McDonald’s All American Games Selection Committee Chairman. “Recognizing that many of these student-athletes had their senior seasons altered or shortened, we wanted to honor them for their skill and dedication to the game of basketball. While we’re disappointed, we can’t hold an in-person Games this year, that does not take away from the accomplishments of this class and they will forever be a part of the legendary group of past and present McDonald’s All Americans.”
This year’s nominees represent 44 states and the District of Columbia. High school players from Texas received the most nominations (87), followed by Florida (58) and California (57). Alumni of the nation’s premier high school basketball showcase include Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Zion Williamson, Maya Moore, Candace Parker, A’ja Wilson and many more.
A complete list of 2021 McDonald’s All American Games Nominees is available at mcdaag.com.
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