Thomas cut at U.S. hoops trials

During the basketball season, Michigan guard Stacey Thomas invoked fear in the hearts of the opposition.

Thomas

As a freshman last season, her quick hands and tenacious defense helped her lead the Wolverines in steals and rank second in both scoring and rebounding.

Her innate athleticism earned her the 1997 Big Ten freshman of the year award, nation-wide recognition - and an opportunity to tryout for the 1997 United States women's junior national basketball team.

Unfortunately, Thomas was not selected from the field of 29 who tried out over the weekend. Twelve players were selected to compete for the team that travels around the world in various tournaments, but the Michigan guard wasn't one of them.

"I definitely feel fortunate that I got opportunity to try out," Thomas said.

The 5-foot-10 guard was at a slight disadvantage because 11 of last year's 12 members were returning players. But Thomas, selected as an alternate, remained positive.

"The experience will help tremendously in the future," Thomas said. "I'm glad I got the chance to play against top competition."

The Flint native was a big part of the Wolverines in her freshman year. She helped drive Michigan to its best season in recent memory - sixth in the conference (7-9, 15-10).

"It's quite an honor just to be invited," Michigan coach Sue Guevara said. "She is against the best kids in the country, and she can see where she fits in.

"It's good for our program that we have a caliber player like that at Michigan. She's a future pro."

06-11-97