Timberlake's Thompson commits to Portland

Cassie Thompson, a 6-foot-2 senior post at Timberlake High in Spirit Lake, has verbally committed to play basketball for the University of Portland in 2011.

Thompson, who has played in tournaments in the Portland area with the North Idaho Elite AAU team, made the decision two weeks ago on an unofficial visit to the campus.

“I like the distance between here and Portland,” Thompson said. “It wasn’t too close, but it’s still close enough that I’m not too far away from home.”

Thompson, a three-time All-Intermountain League selection, was also being sought by teams in the Big Sky Conference, including Eastern Washington, Idaho State, Northern Colorado, Northern Arizona and Montana State.

“I visited Eastern and Montana State, but couldn’t see myself there,” Thompson said. “When I went to Portland, it felt like home.”

It was during a trip to the End of the Trail tournament that Thompson grew fond of the Portland area.

“Ever since we played in that tournament, I’ve really liked Portland,” Thompson said. “I knew that if they offered, I wanted to go there. I knew that’s where I wanted to end up. I think it will be cool to play in a league that plays Gonzaga. It’s really cool to play there.”

Thompson is undecided on a major to study at Portland.

Chris Carlson, who coaches the North Idaho Elite, as well as the North Idaho College women, said it will be a good fit for both Portland and Thompson.

“The opportunity to play in the WCC is big,” Carlson said. “It’s a great conference and Portland is a really good school and the coaches feel that she can be successful there.”

Thompson can’t sign her official letter of intent until November, but can still take three more visits in the coming weeks.

“Nevada is still calling me,” Thompson said. “But I’m set on going to Portland.”