Hold onto your hats, sports fans, because one of Oregon’s most dominant basketball talents is packing her bags for a new adventure! Mayenabasi Akpan, the 6-foot-2 powerhouse from South Medford, has verbally committed to San Diego State, marking a significant moment for both the player and the program. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: Akpan isn’t just a basketball star—she’s a dual-sport phenom who’s also tearing it up on the volleyball court. Let’s dive into why this commitment is such a big deal and what it means for her future.
Akpan’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the past few years, she’s established herself as one of the most intimidating post players in Oregon, dominating the paint with her size, strength, and skill. And this is the part most people miss: her breakout season came as a sophomore in 2023-24, when she helped lead South Medford to a stellar 26-3 record and the Class 6A state championship. Talk about making a statement early!
Her performance in the 2024 state quarterfinals was particularly jaw-dropping. In her first game at the Chiles Center, Akpan dropped a double-double with 19 points and 18 rebounds in a 56-24 rout of Southridge. Throughout the tournament, she averaged an astonishing 17 rebounds per game, showcasing her ability to control the boards like few others can. Even in the 2024-25 season, despite a quarterfinal loss to eventual state champion Tualatin, Akpan still managed a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double, proving her consistency under pressure.
Akpan’s accolades speak for themselves. She earned all-state honorable mention as a sophomore and first-team all-state honors as a junior, solidifying her status as one of Oregon’s top talents. But what’s truly impressive is her versatility. Here’s a controversial take: could Akpan’s success in volleyball—where she was also a first-team all-state selection as a middle blocker and outside hitter—give her an edge on the basketball court? Her athleticism and court awareness certainly translate across sports, and it’s a question worth exploring.
San Diego State is getting more than just a basketball player; they’re gaining a competitor with a proven track record of excellence. The Aztecs had a strong 2024-25 season, finishing 25-10 overall and 11-7 in Mountain West play, though they fell just short in the conference championship game against Wyoming in triple overtime. Their NCAA Tournament run ended in the first round against powerhouse LSU, but with Akpan joining the roster, the future looks bright.
Akpan’s commitment to San Diego State is a testament to her hard work and potential. With offers from Utah and Santa Clara also on the table, her decision to head south shows her confidence in the Aztecs’ program. But here’s the burning question: Can Akpan make an immediate impact at the collegiate level, and will her dominance in high school translate to success in the Mountain West? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—she’s a player to watch.
What do you think? Is Akpan the next big name in college basketball, or will she face tougher challenges at the next level? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to vote for your favorite athletes of the week in football, volleyball, and girls’ soccer—your voice matters!
