Fort Wayne, Ind. — Bishop Luers High School will honor distinguished Class of 2010 alumnus Deshaun Thomas during a special celebration on Saturday, January 17, as part of the Knights’ home basketball game versus Blackhawk Christian School, with tip-off scheduled for 7:30 pm.
The evening’s theme, “Once a Knight, Always #1,” celebrates Thomas’ retirement from professional basketball and recognizes his lasting legacy as one of the most accomplished athletes in Bishop Luers history.
A pre-game ceremony will take place prior to the 7:30 pm tip-off and will feature the retirement of Deshaun Thomas’ iconic #1 jersey, which will be permanently displayed in its forthcoming Knights Hall of Fame which is part of the school’s 2026 expansion plan. The ceremony will honor Thomas’ journey from Bishop Luers standout to collegiate star and respected professional athlete.
During his career at Bishop Luers High School, Thomas earned numerous honors, including:
All-State recognition as Mr. Basketball 2010 for his outstanding performance on the court
All-Conference and All-Area honors during multiple seasons
Conference Player of the Year recognition
McDonalds All-American 2010 honors
Recognition as one of the top high school basketball players in Indiana during his senior season with 3,018 points
School and conference records for scoring and overall offensive production
Led Bishop Luers to back-to-back State Titles in 2008 & 2009, establishing himself as one of the most accomplished players in program history
Following his graduation from Bishop Luers in 2010, Thomas went on to compete at Ohio State University, where he enjoyed an outstanding collegiate career as a member of the Buckeyes men’s basketball program. During his time at Ohio State, Thomas emerged as one of the Big Ten Conference’s premier scorers, earning All-Big Ten recognition and serving as a key leader for the Buckeyes. He was known for his scoring versatility, physical play, and consistency at the highest level of college basketball, helping Ohio State compete nationally and make multiple postseason appearances.
Thomas’ success at Ohio State paved the way for a professional basketball career spanning multiple seasons, during which he competed at a high level both in the United States and internationally, playing most recently for LDLC ASVEL of the French LNB Pro A and the EuroLeague. Respected for his work ethic, toughness, and professionalism, Thomas left a lasting impression wherever he played.
Prior to the game, fans will have the opportunity to attend a meet-and-greet with Deshaun Thomas, including autographs and photos, offering students, alumni, and community members the chance to personally celebrate one of Bishop Luers’ own.
“Deshaun exemplifies what it means to be a Knight,” said Seth Coffing, principal and head boys basketball coach for Bishop Luers. “His dedication and leadership carried him from Bishop Luers to Ohio State and onto the professional stage. Deshaun's legacy here at Bishop Luers, as the best to ever do it, leaves an imprint forever on past, present and future Knights.”
Event Details
🎉 Theme: Once a Knight, Always #1 ⭐ Meet-and-Greet: 6:30 pm & Pre-Game Ceremony: 7:15 pm
📅 Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
📍 Location: Bishop Luers High School Gymnasium
🏀 Game: Bishop Luers vs. Blackhawk Christian - $7 general admission at door / Kids ages 5 and under are free
⏰ Tip-Off: 7:30 pm
Media members, alumni, and community supporters are invited to attend this special evening honoring a Knight whose legacy will forever be honored.
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For additional information, please contact:
Laurie Perolio-Bullinger
Director | Mission Advancement & Marketing
Bishop Luers High School
260-456-1261
lperolio@bishopluers.org