Thompson, a post from Austin Lake Travis, was an integral part of UMHB’s success and one of three Lady Crusaders to earn All-West honors.
Thompson, who also was a first team All-West pick and a member of the division’s All-Freshman team, averaged 15.8 points and eight rebounds per game. She shot 53 percent from the field and had 32 blocks and 30 steals to help the Lady Crusaders (15-12) advance to the semifinals of the conference tournament.
UMHB’s Blair Heitmiller and Kallie White received honorable mention on the All-West squad.
Heitmiller, a senior guard out of Belton, averaged 6.5 points and made 32 3-pointers. She had 45 assists and 40 steals, and was a 75-percent free throw shooter.
White, a sophomore forward from Llano, averaged 6.4 points and five rebounds. She had 34 assists and 30 steals.
Conference champion Howard Payne accounted for three of the West’s top honors. Senior guard Meia Daniels was voted Player of the Year, senior post Stacey Blalock was named Defensive Player of the Year, and Kris Kielsmeier was tabbed Coach of the Year.
Hardin-Simmons junior guard Ashley Allen was named Newcomer of the Year.
