Prep Scene

The University of St. Thomas men and women’s basketball teams are in their second seasons in Division I competition. I caught up with some former metro area prep stars last weekend who are helping to make history in this transition. Women’s team players Jade Hill (Minneapolis South) and Alexis Pratt (Stillwater), men’s team players Courtney Brown Jr. (East Ridge) and Kendall Blue (East Ridge), and men’s assistant coach Cameron Rundles (DeLaSalle).

Scroll through the photos below by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald to see what they had to say.

Courtney Brown Jr. (junior) On why he transferred from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to St. Thomas: “Just having Johnny Tauer as a coach. He’s a Minnesota legend. Getting the opportunity to play for him. The opportunity St. Thomas has going D I, I want to be a part of that story and help build the program up. I’m glad I made the move.”
Alexis Pratt (sophomore) On why she transferred from the University of Nebraska-Omaha to St. Thomas and her high school coach: “I like the environment here. I like the coaches. They are very supportive. I’m really excited to be on the floor with the girls. It’s also good to be home having my parents come to see me and watch me play. [Stillwater High School Head Coach] Willie [Taylor] really taught me a lot about being a point guard. He’s a great coach.”
Jade Hill (sophomore) On her experience at St. Thomas: “It’s been really good. Our environment is the biggest thing I enjoy. It’s broader, supportive and competitive here. Everyone is encouraging and uplifting, and that’s an environment you want to be in. It’s fun to be around and fun to play in. That’s the biggest thing I’ve enjoyed here.”
Courtney Brown Jr. (junior) On why he transferred from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to St. Thomas: “Just having Johnny Tauer as a coach. He’s a Minnesota legend. Getting the opportunity to play for him. The opportunity St. Thomas has going D I, I want to be a part of that story and help build the program up. I’m glad I made the move.”
Kendall Blue (freshman) On why he wanted to play for St. Thomas: “That’s one of the reasons I came to St. Thomas, because I knew I would get playing time right away. I like the atmosphere and playing with my teammates. The environment and community are very supportive, and my family has the opportunity to see me play.”

Support Black local news

Help amplify Black voices by donating to the MSR. Your contribution enables critical coverage of issues affecting the community and empowers authentic storytelling.