* New York Post article on Reana Mohamed

FAIRFAX, Va. - George Mason women's basketball coach Jeri Porter announced the signing of two prospects to National Letters of Intent to join the Patriots for the 2012-13 season. The signing class is comprised of Reana Mohamed (Laurelton, N.Y./Mary Louis Academy) and Ondrea Shaw (Louisville, Ky./Coffeyville C.C.).

A 5'8" wing from Mary Louis Academy, Mohamed has helped lead the Hilltoppers to three straight CHSAA Brooklyn/Queens finals and upset rival Christ the King for the first time in school history last season. Mohamed averaged 15 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 3.3 steals as a junior.

"Reana is going to be a wonderful compliment to the George Mason program," commented Mary Louis Academy head basketball coach Joe Lewinger. "She is a hard-working and athletic player that can do many things on both ends of the court. Most importantly, the Mason community will be happy about the type of player she is."

A multi-dimensional player who can guard perimeter players aggressively, Mohamed was an All-City honorable mention, All-City Daily News, and honorable mention and First Team All-Queens. Additionally, Mohamed was selected All-Queens by New York Post.

"I knew when I first saw Reana that I wanted her in my program," Porter remarked on Mohamed. "She has the athleticism and skill set as a slashing guard to make an immediate impact in the CAA. She also has the leadership qualities and work ethic that will make her very valuable to our program. Coming from NYC and playing against top talent every night will give her an edge that I believe will be invaluable stepping into our league."

Shaw, a 6'4" post rated as the #38 Junior College player by All Star Girls Report, will join the Patriots from Coffeyville Community College. Last season as a freshman with the Red Ravens, Shaw was second team All-Conference and second team All-Region. She set a team record and led the nation with 157 blocks last season while averaging nine points, ten rebounds and five blocks per game.

A natural shot blocker according to Coffeyville's head coach Emily Washburn, Shaw was second on the team in scoring and first in rebounding and blocks. "Ondrea's athleticism and defensive presence will allow her to be an instant impact player for George Mason," noted Washburn. "She has grown immensely as a player since coming to Coffeyville and I believe she will continue to mature as a player to reach her highest potential under the Mason coaching staff."

"Ondrea Shaw is a major addition to our already solid front court," noted Porter. "Her length and athleticism make her a perfect fit in our system and her prowess as a shot blocker will allow us to extend our pressure defense out even further with her protecting the basket. She continues to work extremely hard to develop her mid-range jumper and to broaden her offensive skill set. We are excited about the immediate impact that she will have on our program.

"We are excited to welcome both of these young ladies into our George Mason family," Porter said.