BOOKER T. WASHINGTON HORNETS
BOYS
Coach: Eli K. Brown III
23-24 Record: 24-3
OUTLOOK
Being state runner-up is a great accomplishment for most program, but the Hornets of Booker T. Washington are not most programs. Last season the Hornets lost in the finals. It’s not something coach Eli Brown is focused on, but it is a reminder of how close they came to adding the school’s 17th state title in boys basketball.
“We are returning five starters and coming off a state championship game that we lost, so we are hungry to get back and take care of business this time,” said coach Brown.
BJ Harris (6-1, Sr.) is back at guard where he averaged 14 points a game last season. Harris is an explosive finisher with the ability to stretch the floor and a reliable three-ball. Jamarri Simpson (6-2, Sr.) is a combo guard averaging 13 points per contest.
“ ”“He has transformed himself into a reliable 3-point shooter and is great around the basket. Jamarri defends like his hair is on fire and he is fearless. He can guard 1-4 sometimes even 5’s. He puts his body on the line for his team and is extremely coachable,” said Brown.
VYPE Top 100 selectee Joc Mitchell (6-3, So.) will play point guard. Mitchell averaged 10 points a game and can finish at the rim. He has the physical tools you need to play at the next level. Mitchell has a high basketball IQ and is a nightmare to defend. Isaac Sanders (6-2, Jr.) and Mason Matulis (6-4, Jr.) are two shooting guards who averaged 11 points each. Their play is crucial to the overall success of the team. Other players to watch include LJ Scott (5-8, Jr.) at guard, Riley Williams (6-1, Jr.) at guard, Oliver Wallace Jr. (6-0, So.) at shooting guard, Yiramiyah Parry (6-5, Jr.) at forward, Kenton Bowens (6-2, Sr.) at forward, Marquis Alexander (5-6, Fr.) at point guard, Donald Laster (5-9, Fr.) at guard, Elijah Carter (6-4, Fr.) at forward, and Angelo Estes (6-3, So.) at guard.
