Young Canes Win All Stars, Do Well At State

The Jasper County Recreation Department 14 year old team competed well this season winning All Stars and finishing as runner ups in state competition.

Head Coach Selena Booth said that the young squad faced a lot of adversity throughout the year but they managed to overcome those obstacles and bond as a team.

“We had a tough season and dealt with a lot of adversity due to racism and our skills but we became more than a team, we became a family.“

The coach said that the kids were pushed to be better versions of themselves on the court and off the court. She said that school administrators took notice of the change in the young athletes at school and are proud of all the work they all have put in to make this season a success and it’s showing on and off the court.

“Now that we have won All Stars and finished second in state we have started an AAU team called Venom Elite and are continuing to strive to be better. As a coach I could not be any prouder of my guys, they become my kids and a part of my family forever. I want to give kids a chance that have cards dealt against them and change how some are treated.”

The team includes Jackson Crooms #2 age 12; Jackson Allred #21 age 13; Chance Ross #10 age 12; Isaiah Jackson #11 age 13; Garyson Banks #20 age 13; MJ Maddox #5 age 12; Jordyn Campbell #33 age 13; Tyrin Epps #23 age 13; Zach Evans #14 age 14; and Aidon King #3 age 14.

Coach Booth was aided by assistant coach Ryan Allred and manager Tae Jackson. The coach also led the 8 & under team this season with half of that team making it to All Stars as well. She also led the age 4-6 team which won the championship as well.