Brianna Thomas Decides To Duke It Out In 2013

On the heals of a great showing at the Centennial Colts High School Tournament, on October 30, 2012, Brianna Thomas (5’10”, G, Notre Dame) of Ajax, ON has made the decision to commit to Duquesne University for 2013.

“I can finally take a deep breath and relax. Now it’s just to prepare for what comes next”, said Thomas. “Duquesne was the obvious choice for me because they’ve seen me through this whole process, and the ups and downs.”

“[Head] Coach Serio is also the type if coach that I’d like to play for because I know she will always expect a lot from me and push me past my limits and help me reach new heights.”

At 5’10”, Thomas is a solid sized Guard that also has the strength and ability to get to the hole consistently. The fifth year senior has a good shot to complement those driving abilities. On the defensive end, Thomas has the footwork to keep pace with even the quickest of defenders. Her reach has allowed her to block a shot or two with her quick reflexes.

Duquesne, who is currently ranked Fourth in the pre-season A-10 Conference polls, will be able to draw on a number of ways to make use of Thomas’ upside. Her strength and versatility are qualities that her JUEL League rep Coach, Chris Smalling, says will lend themselves a great deal at the next level.

“Brianna is unique in that she’s good at playing four positions, from Point Guard through to Power Forward. With Brianna’s skillset, size and toughness, I think she’ll fit in very well”, says Smalling. “I am extremely happy. Brianna is a kid the works extremely hard. She spends so many hours in the gym, especially this summer, doing two-a-days and sometimes three-a-days.”

“When you see a kid that puts that many hours in, get to go to a good school like Duquesne, it’s really good to see.”

Thomas who is leaning towards a major in Biology, went on her visit to Duquesne back in October of 2011. She will certainly feel a Canadian touch while attending the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania University. The Dukes currently have three Canadians on their roster including Jose-Anne Johnson, Oditte Odisho and A-10’s Second-Team All-Conference selection (2011), Wumi Agunbiade, who will all be around to bring this newest commit into the fold.

Thomas is deeply appreciative of everyone that has contributed in one way or another into her development.  And because of that, wanted to cast as wide a net as possible in order to say thank you.

“I thank everyone who has crossed my path, Advantage Titans [rep], A-Game [AAU], and Durham City [rep] along with Mrs. Booker [Notre Dame], Mrs. Gonzalez-Rodgers [Notre Dame]. Most importantly God, my mother Donna Thomas, and the rest of my family.”