The best of the 2019 McDonald's All-American game
ATLANTA, GA — The 2019 McDonald’s All-American game is in the books. After a full week of practices and the big game on Wednesday night, there are plenty of things to look back on. We roll out our awards from the festivities.
BEST GUARD
In the game, it was Cole Anthony. The Oak Hill Academy floor general made his impact felt in every category. He was named MVP of the game after his 14 points, seven assists and five rebounds in the East’s 115-100 win. He set the tone for the East right from the get go.
BEST WING
Precious Achuiwa. He put up more shots than anyone in the game and didn’t shy away from an opportunity to put his stamp on the game. The big wing scored a game-high 22 points on 10-20 shooting from the floor.
BEST POST PLAYER
From start to finish, future Washington big man Isaiah Stewart was the tone-setter in the paint. He used his muscle and strength to power his way around the basket for boards and scores. In the game, he scored 16 points on 8-11 shooting from the floor. In the practices, he was outstanding in every regard.
MOST ENTERTAINING
Anthony and Anthony Edwards paired up for what was the most exciting backcourt duo in the game. And for a game that didn’t really have a lot of wow moments, these two combined for 26 points on 12-19 shooting from the floor.
MR. I WAS SUPPOSED TO BE HERE
When the rosters were announced for the 2019 McDonald’s All-American game, there were some opinions that believed future West Virginia big man Oscar Tshiebwe may not have been quite the level of player that should have been in this game. Hogwash. He absolutely should have been. The big man was one of the best players over the course of the week. He drilled shots time and time again, emptied the tank with energy throughout the practice sessions and took full advantage of on-court time during the game. Terrific week for Tshiebwe.
MR. BUSINESS TRIP
Scottie Lewis has always been a HoopSeen favorite because of his business-like approach to the game. The future Florida Gator was always the first man out to the workouts, was always actively and authentically engaged in the action and genuinely enjoyed the experience.
MR. VERSATILITY
Jeremiah Robison-Earl is the Swiss Army Knife. He proved just as much all week long. The future Villanova forward masters efficiency every time he steps on the floor. His play here in Atlanta falls in line with the same storyline from his travel and high school seasons. Nova fans will absolutely love him in college.
BUMMER
Hated to see Vernon Carey, Jr. sit and watch with a bum ankle this week. The future Duke big man was not able to play because of a sprained ankle suffered in the Florida state playoffs. Carey was in good spirits about it but don’t be surprised to see him put on a show in the GEICO tournament next week.
FINAL NOTES FROM ATLANTA
Our final rankings for the class of 2019 will come out soon now that we’ve had a chance to see the class one last time. There will be some major changes. Make no mistakes about that. This class is solid and full of good college players.
But pros? Not many. At least for the star level pro. Lifers? You bet.
Overall this class doesn’t have the star power that we’ve seen in years past and years behind it. But they are good. Obviously. And several will be stars next March as we dance the biggest dance in college sports.