As the Boys Basketball team assembles back on the court, senior Chris Allen and sophomore Jordan Lambert’s love and passion for the game is back as well.
For many of the boys, they grew up playing the sport, which led to everlasting friendships in the team. Despite the impact that COVID-19 has brought, the team is ready to get back to playing hard and doing it together.
“The brotherhood you create with different people is the most important thing about the sport to me,” said Allen.
Allen has been playing for about five years, and the sport benefits him both physically and emotionally.
“I enjoy being a leader,” Allen said. “It’s good for me to always be held accountable for my actions.”
Along with the players, the coach also plays a major role in the team.
“The best part of coaching is watching a group of young men grow up right in front of your eyes, and still having those relationships beyond graduation,” said head coach Travis Carr.
With hopes of first day tryouts on December 7th, the team is excited to have their sneakers squeak on the court again. The hard work and dedication of the team shows individually through each of the players in unique ways.
“I’m excited to start playing again because I haven’t played in over a year,” Lambert said.
“I have been practicing and preparing for a year now for this moment to come.”
Not only do the boys play an important role in bringing wins to Prince George, but Carr likes to keep them active in the community.
“I try to instill a program that has players who do more than just play basketball,” said Carr. “With our platform, we try to give back to the community and school with projects such as the Annual Toy Drive & Student Basketball Game known as “Battle of the Classes” benefitting ASK, a Children’s Cancer Foundation, Annual Mentoring Program with Walton Elementary School called “Carr’s Kids”, Assisting with the Optimist Club Christmas Tree Lot every winter, and Annual Summer Camp for county kids.”
Every athlete knows the feeling of love for their sport.
“I can’t wait to just compete with the other teams and players around the area,” Lambert said. “Basketball makes me happy and I just love to compete and to put on a show for the crowd.”
Basketball isn’t just about competition and athleticism, the sport is also about making memories that will last a lifetime.
“One of my favorite memories was my second varsity game against Hopewell,” said Allen. “One of the boys from the other team came across half court and threw the ball. I was in the paint watching where the ball was going and when I turned around, I got dunked on.”
Working together as a team and having a secure bond is important to the coach and players, especially the seniors on their final night. Not only are they teammates, but a family.
“My favorite memory of coaching here is the annual Senior Night game,” Carr said. “It’s a special moment for our graduates, playing in their final home again.”
