It is the time of year to commemorate and vote for the outstanding high school basketball players in the Gastonia and Shelby areas for the week of December 11-16, 2023. This weekly recognition aims to acknowledge the dedication and exceptional athletic performance of these young athletes. Voting is now open, and you can help determine who will be named the Players of the Week.
The list of candidates for this week’s recognition has been carefully curated from inputs provided by coaches, athletic directors, and team statisticians. The nominees have showcased exceptional skills and commitment, warranting them a spot in the running for this esteemed acknowledgment.
The boys’ basketball category features impressive accomplishments from some of the region’s most promising talents. Among them is John Michael Green from East Gaston, who led his team to victory with a remarkable 27-point contribution in a thrilling 63-60 win over Olympic. Kellen Karr of North Lincoln demonstrated exceptional all-around skills by averaging an astounding 31 points, 14 rebounds, nine assists, and four steals in recent wins over South Iredell and Statesville. Caleb Nixon of Kings Mountain also made his mark by averaging 11.5 points and seven rebounds in their triumphant performances against Shelby and Stuart Cramer. Kings Rhodes of Crest showcased remarkable prowess with a double-double of 10 points and 14 rebounds in an 81-64 win over Forestview, while Graham Williams of South Point delivered outstanding results with double-doubles in both a loss and a subsequent win against Fort Mill (South Carolina) Catawba Ridge and Fort Mill, respectively.
The girls’ basketball category is equally filled with exceptional performances from talented athletes. Amya Graham of South Point displayed an impressive double-double average of 17 points and 16.3 rebounds, contributing significantly to her team’s two out of three victories. Addie McCraw of Highland Tech made her presence felt with an average of 12.7 points and 15 rebounds, proving instrumental in her team’s wins over Bradford Prep, Sugar Creek, and Pinnacle Classical Academy. Ally Smith of North Lincoln showcased her all-around skills with an average of 23.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 5.5 steals in wins over South Iredell and Statesville. Monica Surratt of Crest delivered an outstanding 26-point performance, accompanied by five rebounds and five steals, leading her team to a 63-48 victory over Forestview. Meanwhile, Hadley Womack of Stuart Cramer made a significant impact by averaging 26.5 points and five rebounds, contributing to her team’s victories over South Iredell and Kings Mountain.
As you cast your vote, consider the exceptional contributions of each nominee to their respective teams. Your participation is crucial in recognizing and appreciating the hard work and commitment demonstrated by these athletes.
The poll will remain open until noon on Friday, so be sure to make your choice and contribute to the acknowledgment of the exceptional talent displayed by the high school basketball players in the Gastonia and Shelby areas. Your vote matters in celebrating these noteworthy achievements and encouraging these young athletes as they continue to excel in their athletic pursuits.