Lucas honored as Parade All-American

Awards are nothing new for Centennial High girls basketball star Italee Lucas. But that doesn't make her latest string of honors any less impressive.

Parade Magazine released its girls All-America teams Monday, and Lucas was among 10 players on the first team.

The team will be published nationally in Sunday's Parade Magazine newspaper insert.

Lucas, who averaged 24.3 points, 9.0 rebounds and 3.8 assists as a senior, made Parade's second team last year.

It was only the latest in a series of accolades for the 5-foot-8-inch guard. On Saturday, she played in the Women's Basketball Coaches Association High School All-America Game in Cleveland.

She started for the White team and had 12 points and seven assists in 21 minutes.

"It's an honor and a privilege," Lucas said of the postseason awards and opportunities to play in all-star games. "I'm just glad I was able to accomplish some of my goals. It was a good time."

Lucas was the first Nevada girl to play in the McDonald's All-American Game on March 28. She started for the West team and had three points and six rebounds in 17 minutes.

Lucas said playing in the McDonald's game fulfilled a longtime goal.

"It's more of a goal I had before entering high school," Lucas said. "I always wanted to play in the McDonald's game."

Though she struggled offensively in the McDonald's game, making just 1 of 12 shots from the field, she still had a good time.

"The game was enjoyable," Lucas said. "I created memories I will never forget, and I'm just glad I had a chance to go out there and have a good time."

Lucas will try out for the USA Women's under-19 national team next month and will head to North Carolina in June to start her college career with the Tar Heels.

Lucas was at the game Sunday when North Carolina lost 56-50 to Tennessee in the national semifinals. She said she's eager to get her college career started.

"I went to the game and I had pretty good seats," Lucas said. "I think I could help them a little bit."