Adams to Skip Basketball at Cypress

Julie Adams, the only returning starter from Cypress’ 26-4 girls’ basketball team, decided Wednesday to leave the program to concentrate on softball.

Adams’ decision came after she received confirmation that she is one of 39 national finalists for the U.S. Junior World team that will conduct tryouts Jan. 3-8 at Cal State Fullerton. There, the group will be pared to 17.

“I’ve been hurt in basketball before, and if I get hurt at all, there’s no chance for me,” said Adams, a shortstop who will attend UCLA on a softball scholarship.

“The ultimate goal is to be in the Olympics, and this is one step closer. I would never forgive myself if, a week before the tryouts, I broke my ankle in a basketball game.

“I look at this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I want to give it my best shot and be as ready as I can be.”

Adams averaged 17.3 points, 13.5 rebounds and shot 56% from the field last year.