By JOHNNY PEPPO

Sports Editor

She’s only a sophomore. But she’s already got some of the top honors in large school play.

East St. John sophomore Mechelle Thomas added another with this season’s all-district selections as a first team pick and the offensive MVP after averaging 22 points, five assists and four steal per game. She led the LadyCats to a 29-10 record this season as they were ranked among the top ten girls teams in Class 5A.

&#8220I think she’s the best player in the state,” said ESJ coach Troy Giordano. &#8220She’s definitely the best guard in the state. But she led our team in every stat except blocked shots and rebounds. That’s what she brings to every game.”

And Giordano knows about talent. He’s led the LadyCats to nine district titles in ten years.

Joining Thomas in all-district accolades for this season is junior Christina Hildreth who made the 5-5A second team. Hildreth led ESJ’s girls this season in blocks and rebounds.

Senior guard Keyona Nelson received honorable mention in her fourth year with East St. John.

&#8220Keyona adds toughness to the team,” Giordano said. &#8220She’s a physical player, athletic, and a hard worker. She holds her ground. And you’ve got to have those kind of role players.”