Portland’s Lilly Thelen signs to play basketball for Lake Superior State University

Portland High School senior Lilly Thelen recently signed to continue her basketball career at Lake Superior State University.

When asked about her choice to attend this school, Thelen said, “I have chosen to attend Lake Superior State University for many different reasons, some include its uplifting atmosphere, the strong basketball community, and the small campus, which feels like home. I'm very excited to join the basketball team and be surrounded by amazing coaches and teammates. I am also very excited to get back on the court with my sister again!”

Thelen will joining her older sister Malia (PHS class of 2024) on the LSSU roster.

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In her time at Portland, Thelen has played varsity softball and basketball for four years.  On the court she was a team captain for the 2024-2025 season, and has received numerous awards both academically and athletically, including all-conference, academic all-conference, LSJ Dream Team, Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan All-state honorable mention, Associated Press division two all-state second team (2024-2025), and Detroit News All-State honorable mention (2024-2025).

On the softball field she has been named all-conference, academic all-conference, and Academic All-State.

Thelen said, “I am very thankful for every coach and teammate who has played a part in my basketball journey. I truly wouldn't be here without any of these people! I would like to thank my family as well. My mom for spending countless hours riding with me to different tournaments and always supporting me. My dad for always being the one to keep it real and provide endless advice. And my sister for being my biggest cheerleader and the one who has always kept me going! A huge thanks to my high school coaches, Coach Haid and Coach Petitt. Thank you, Denny Krinicki, Austin Randall, and all my AAU coaches! A final thank you to all my family, friends, and community who have supported me along the way. I wouldn't be where I am today without you!”

Portland varsity girls basketball coach Jason Haid told the Beacon, “I am extremely excited for Lilly to commit to playing college basketball. There is no doubt that she will excel at Lake Superior State University. She has been an outstanding player in our program over the last 3 years. She is the ultimate competitor and will do whatever it takes to win.  The Lakers are getting a player who will come in and battle every chance she gets. She will make an immediate impact.”

Thelen intends to major in engineering at LSSU.

Phots courtesy of PHS Athletic Department.