The 2021 McDonald's All American Games will not be played after health and safety experts advised against an in-person game this year. Instead, the 48 participants to be named later this month will be honored with virtual celebrations, per a
press release issued Thursday.
Despite the games being canceled, the selection process remains in full swing as
700 boys and girls high school basketball players have been nominated.
"Even during an unprecedented year, we were so impressed seeing high school athletes continuing to celebrate the game we all love, while making an impact both on an off the court," McDonald's All-American Games Selection Committee Chairman Joe Wootten said. "Recognizing that many of these student-athletes had their senior seasons altered or shortened, we wanted to honor them for their skill and dedication to the game of basketball. While we're disappointed we can't hold an in-person game this year, that does not take away from the accomplishments of the class and they will forever be a part of the legendary group of past and present McDonald's All-Americans."
Nominees represent 44 states and the District of Columbia. Texas (87), Florida (58) and California (57) were the three states with the most nominations.
The McDonald's games began in 1977 for the boys and 2002 for the girls and were played every year until 2020, when it was canceled due to the pandemic.
Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan are among the most notable former boys participants while Skylar Diggins, Sabrina Ionescu and Candace Parker have been headliners in the girls game.
