Princeton High School's Erin Thomas and Winton Woods' Strawberry Blankumsee have been selected for the USA Basketball Women’s U17 National Team trials. These trials will take place starting May 21 in Colorado Springs, with the final 12-member team to be revealed afterward. The chosen team will compete in the 2026 FIBA U17 Women’s World Cup in Czechia from July 11-19. Both players are highly ranked four-star recruits, highlighting their significant contributions to their respective high school teams this past season.

By the Numbers
  • Erin Thomas averaged 19.7 points, 3.8 rebounds for Princeton (23-5) this season.
  • Strawberry Blankumsee averaged 14.3 points, 4.0 rebounds for Winton Woods (18-7) this season.
State of Play
  • Thomas and Blankumsee are both members of the 2028 graduating class, competing among other rising talents.
  • The trials will provide elite competition level necessary for player development and scouting.
What's Next

Following the trials, the selected team will engage in training camp in early July before heading to Czechia for the World Cup. Both players will continue to showcase their skills at upcoming events to further attract college interest.

Bottom Line

The invitation to the U17 trials is not just a personal achievement for Thomas and Blankumsee; it also signifies their potential impact on future international youth basketball competitions. Their participation enhances their prospects for collegiate recruitment and further development as athletes.