Allen to get early start in Midwest

For point guard Lindsay Allen, coming to Chicago to play in the McDonald’s All-American Game is a dream come true.

“Growing up playing basketball, you want to play in the McDonald’s All-American Game,” Allen said. “I watched people like LeBron [James] and Candace Parker.”

Allen, who has committed to play at Notre Dame next year, will join her future teammate — and McDonald’s Player of the Year — Taya Reimer on the East squad Wednesday, April 3, at the United Center.

“Me and Taya are good friends,” Allen said. “We played on the same USA national team.”

The community feel of the Notre Dame team and university led Allen to choose to leave the East Coast — where she attends St. John’s (Md.) — and head to the Midwest.

Excelling in the classroom and on the court both are goals for Allen when she arrives in South Bend, Ind.

“I have to stay on top of my books and time management,” Allen said. “On the team, I need to fill the roles I need to fill and do what I need to do to help the team win.”

Playing with Team USA has allowed Allen the chance to travel around the world, which she hopes will continue after college.

“I would love to play in the WNBA or overseas,” Allen said. “I like to travel a lot.”

When asked who her favorite McDonald’s All-American of all time is, Allen had a short, direct answer.

“Michael Jordan. Classic,” Allen said.

And to which player does she compare her style of game with most?

“Rajon Rondo,” Allen said. “[He’s] a pass-first point guard, but can score when needed.”

In the coming days, Season Pass will feature student-athletes and coaches with local ties that will be participating in the McDonald’s All-American Games.

For the latest updates on the McDonald’s All-American Game, follow @McDAAG on Twitter.