Ellis Withdraws From All-Star Game

LeRon Ellis of Mater Dei High School, named Player of the Year by Cal-Hi Sports of Sacramento, withdrew Thursday from the Orange County All-Star basketball game June 20 in UC Irvine’s Bren Center.

Ellis, a 6-foot, 11-inch senior center, had missed the opening day of practice for the North team Monday. He told game officials Thursday that because he would have to attend a freshman orientation in Kentucky next week, it would be impossible to participate in the required practices. Players are required to attend nine practices.

“It would be difficult to justify playing someone in an all-star game who didn’t attend the practices,” said Steve Brooks, North coach.

Ellis led Mater Dei to the Southern Section’s 5-A championship and the state Division I title. He is the son of former Laker center LeRoy Ellis.