Derek Thompson Selected to Play in NEBCA Senior All-Star Game

Mike Holbrook

Special to the Comment Sports Blog

BRIDGEWATER, Mass. -- Bridgewater State College senior Derek Thompson has been selected to play in the New England Basketball Coaches Association (NEBCA) Division III College Senior All-Star Game which will take place at the Staake Gymnasium on the Campus of Babson College on Sunday, April 22nd beginning at 5 PM.

A native of Hyannis, Massachusetts, Thompson was a First Team All-Massachusetts State College Athletic Conference (MASCAC) selection for the second straight season in 2006-2007 as he averaged 16.2 points and 6.7 rebounds while shooting 57% (157-for-276) from the floor. He led the MASCAC in field goal percentage while finishing seventh in the conference in rebounding, eighth in scoring and tenth in blocked shots (18).

The BSC men's basketball team finished the season with a 17-8 overall record as well as a 9-3 mark in conference play. Seeded second in the MASCAC Tournament, the Bears lost in the tournament semifinals as they dropped a 59-49 decision to Westfield State College.

Thompson wrapped up his four-year career at Bridgewater State with 866 points and 386 rebounds as he averaged 12.6 points and 5.6 rebounds in 69 career games. He leaves as the Bears' all-time field goal percentage leader with a .588 (318-for-541) shooting percentage as he eclipsed John Hickey's (1989-92) career mark of .562 (570-for-1014). Last season, Derek set BSC's single-season record with a .638 (153-for-240) field goal percentage.

The NEBCA resurrected their senior all-star game after a three year absence and all proceeds will benefit the Coaches vs. Cancer campaign. The rosters were selected by several committees made up of area college coaches and are being released by Stephen Brennan, the NEBCA Executive Secretary.

In addition to the all-star game, there will be a free clinic at 3:30 run by several of the game's participants and area coaches, along with raffles that include Boston Celtics memorabilia and a chance to take a shot for $50,000. Tickets will be sold at the following rates: Adults $10, Students $5, and children under 12 free.

Joining Thompson on the senior all-star team from the MASCAC are Westfield State's Curtis Gadles, and Salem State's Eric Downie and Brandon McCombs.