Burlington C. to play in McDonald’s Shootout

The Burlington Central girls basketball team will take a step into the limelight next season, even of for just one day.

Jim O’Boye, the promoter and organizer of the McDonald’s Shootout at Willowbrook High School, confirmed Monday the Rockets have accepted an invitation to play in the 2014 event on Martin Luther King weekend.

The McDonald’s Shootout, which will be in its 24th year in 2014, annually features matchups of top Chicago area teams as well as top teams for neighboring states. The 2014 event will be held Jan. 17, Jan. 18 and Jan. 20. O’Boye said Central would play either Jan. 18 or Jan. 20 against an opponent to be determined and announced in December.

“It’s quite an honor,” said BC coach Mark Smith, whose freshman-laden team has tied the school record for wins and takes a 23-4 mark and the top seed into this week’s Class 3A Burlington Central regional.

“In terms of recognition and places to get your kids seen, the Dundee-Crown Christmas tournament and the McDonald’s Shootout are at the top of the list. We’re thrilled and excited to be playing in the McDonald’s Shootout.”

With sophomore Allison Colby and freshmen Shelby Holt, Kayla Ross, Sam Pryor, Becca Gerke and Sam Cruz, among others, all returning next season the Rockets figure to be a top team for several seasons to come.