Hold onto your hats, sports fans, because one of Oregon’s most dominant basketball players is making a big move! Mayenabasi Akpan, the 6-foot-2 powerhouse from South Medford, has verbally committed to San Diego State, and this decision is turning heads across the West Coast. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: Akpan isn’t just a basketball star—she’s also a standout volleyball player, proving she’s a force to be reckoned with on any court. Let’s dive into why this commitment is such a big deal and what it means for her future.
Akpan’s rise to stardom began in the 2023-24 season when she emerged as a breakout player, helping South Medford secure a 26-3 record and the Class 6A state championship. As a sophomore, she dominated the paint, averaging a staggering 17 rebounds per game during the state championships. Remember her first game at the Chiles Center? She dropped a double-double with 19 points and 18 rebounds in a 56-24 rout of Southridge. Talk about making an entrance!
But it wasn’t just her sophomore year that caught everyone’s attention. In the 2024-25 season, Akpan continued to shine, leading the Panthers to a 22-6 record. Even in a tough 47-37 quarterfinal loss to eventual state champion Tualatin, she recorded another double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Her consistency and dominance earned her first-team all-state honors as a junior, following an honorable mention as a sophomore. And let’s not forget those offers from Utah and Santa Clara—Akpan had options, but San Diego State won her over.
Now, let’s talk about San Diego State. The Aztecs had a solid 2024-25 season, finishing 25-10 overall and 11-7 in Mountain West play. They fell just short in a thrilling triple-overtime conference championship game against Wyoming and faced a tough first-round exit in the NCAA Tournament against No. 3 LSU. With Akpan joining their ranks, could the Aztecs be poised for an even stronger run next season? It’s a question that’s already sparking debates among college basketball fans.
And this is the part most people miss: Akpan’s versatility as an athlete. Last fall, she was a first-team all-state volleyball player, excelling as both a middle blocker and outside hitter. Her ability to dominate in two sports at such a high level is rare and speaks volumes about her athleticism and work ethic. Will she pursue volleyball at the collegiate level as well? Only time will tell.
But here’s the controversial question: Is San Diego State the best fit for Akpan’s talents, or could she have aimed even higher? Some argue that her skills warrant a spot at a powerhouse program, while others believe the Aztecs offer the perfect environment for her to thrive. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!
As Akpan prepares to take her talents south, one thing is clear: her journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next. Whether you’re a fan of Oregon high school sports or a college basketball enthusiast, this is a story you’ll want to follow. Stay tuned, because Mayenabasi Akpan is just getting started!
