Westlake High School has a strong tradition when it comes to basketball. They are the home of two state titles and a host of region and tournament championships. Along with those accolades, they continue to mold student athlete after student athlete. This season has been no different, with the emergence of power forward Marcus Thornton, the Lions are on track to capture another state title. At 6'8 Thornton is a very talented young man, who excels in the class room as well as on the hardwood. A well rounded individual, he makes his parents and teachers proud by sporting a 3.8 GPA in the math and science program at the school. As an underclassman the nice kid might have stuck out a bit too much on the court. Often being criticized for not playing hard or being soft. This past summer I watched him come into his own as a member of the Georgia Stars AAU squad where he matched up against the top front court players around the country. He routinely posted double doubles against the likes of Tobias Harris and Jared Sullinger, both of whom will be present in this years McDonald's All American game. Thornton came into this years high school season with his confidence way up, and its definitely showing. The All-State performer is averaging 24pts, 12reb, 3.5ast, 2.5blks while leading his team to a 27-2 record, and the number one ranking going into the state tournament. Along the way he has picked up MVP honors at the Chik-fila Classic in South Carolina, Region 4-AAAAA Player of the Year, he was selected to the GHSA All-Star team, and in April he will be participating in the Capital Classic in Washington, DC. Thornton has already signed his letter to attend Clemson University, and under the guidance of Oliver Purnell the bouncy forward is headed for a wonderful career.