Carver Wolverines Host Summer Slam Basketball Tournament
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It’s a daily reminder of how glorious a state championship can be, and for the Carver Wolverines, the road to another state title starts it their own gymnasium.
“We call it the summer slam and what it is is a lot of varsity teams from across the area, that we come together and we play what we call a play date and that’s what the Alabama High School allows us to do,” said Carver head basketball coach James Jackson.
Fourteen teams participated in the 8th annual Summer Slam Tournament. Each team played three- 50 minute games.
“We kind of test the waters to see where our young kids are, try to make sure our veterans are still playing well and together and gives you a chance to grade your team a little early,” said Jackson.
It’s been four months since Carver took home the 6A state basketball title. The Wolverines edged Lee-Huntsville 57-55 for the victory at the BJCC in Birmingham.
“I miss playing basketball. It feels great to be back out here and playing good and playing with my team again and we’re ready to make another run next year,” said senior Darian Adams.
Coach Jackson has 11 guys returning, but his main focus is who’s going to be the team leader, and replacing last years leading scorer, Brandon Austin, who now plays for Alabama.
“I try to be a leader in whatever sport I play because even though we are the same age, someone might be looking up to you so I just try to lead with the best of my ability,” said senior Lyndell Wilson.
“I think I could fill that spot especially being a senior this year. I just feel like being on the team last year winning the state championship, and being in big games and big situations like that, it can help out the team and push through everything,” added senior Carleton Williams.
Coach Jackson has five Division-1 prospects on his team, and believes his guys will step up to the challenge.
Teams like Jeff Davis, Lanier, Brewbaker Tech, and Lee joined Carver on the hardwood.
