MU Athletics Director Bryan Rizzo looks on as Vaness LaMay (L) and Brandy Ullum (R) prepare to sign their letters of intent at halftime Saturday.

LIVONIA, Mich. -- The Madonna University women's basketball program received a pair of commitments from high school standouts at halftime of Saturday’s (Dec. 5) game versus Indiana Tech.  Taylor Truman’s Vanessa LaMay and Almont’s Brandy Ullum became the second and third players to commit to head coach Carl Graves for the 2008-09 season.

"We could not be happier to get both of these players officially in the fold for next season," said Graves. "We have worked very hard to bring them both into the Madonna family and it is a great day to see it all come full circle.”

Ullom, a 5-10 forward is a two-sport standout at Almont high, earning varsity letters in both track and basketball in each of her prep seasons.  She is a two-time honorable mention All-League performer on the hardwood and was a state qualifier in the 4 x 800 as a junior.

“Brandy is a very hard worker with great potential as a collegiate player,” said Graves.  “She will bring with her four years of varsity experience which gives her a great chance to come in and compete for playing time right away.”

LaMay brings an impressive list of accolades to Madonna next year.  A four-year varsity player, she was twice elected the team captain and has been a three-time All-Downriver selection heading into her senior campaign.  The 5-11 forward was named to Detroit Free Press writer Mick McCabe’s “Top 100 Girls to Watch” list this season.  She has lived up to the expectations, averaging 20 points and 14 rebounds per contest, midway through her final prep season.

“Vanessa has been extremely impressive each time we have watched her play, and even more impressive when we sat down to talk to her,” said Graves.  “She continues to get better with each game she plays and we are very excited about seeing her in the blue and gold next season.”