Sophomore forward Christen Benson were named Most ValuablePlayer and senior guard Leo Garrett was the recipient of thePanther Award at Monday night’s Brookhaven Basketball AwardsBanquet. It was held at the Brookhaven Parks & RecreationCenter located on Highway 51 North.

An estimated crowd of 50 witnessed the event that honored varsityand junior varsity basketball teams.

Ole Brook boys coach Preston Wilson delivered the invocation afterShartell Fields welcomed the crowd.

Wilson’s Panthers posted a 21-6 record and lost in overtime toForest Hill in the Region 5A Tournament.

“We played a lot more half-court defense this season because we hadtwo big guys,” said Wilson. “Our players have made a slowtransition from zone (defense) to man-to-man. It takes time. Thefuture looks bright.”

Wilson said Garrett made the move to point guard and adapted wellto the new position. “Leo was a shooting guard but we needed him atpoint. He’s levelheaded. He stepped up and became ourcatalyst.”

Wilson praised his six seniors for providing team leadership. “Wetry to stress how our players handle themselves off thefloor.”

Wilson thanked his wife for her patient support and understandingduring the long season. He also thanked assistant coach DorianWilliams for filling an important role on the squad. “He’s thedirect opposite of me and that’s good. He’s low key.”

Senior center Fred Fairman was recognized as Best Offensive Playerand the team’s Best Rebounder. Daniel Washington was named BestDefensive Player. Other awards went to Dennis Jordan, MostImproved; Keith Johnson, Most Energetic; and Hakeem Trimel,Scholastic Award.

BHS girls coach Freda Craft reflected on her team’s 4-18 campaignthat featured several close setbacks. “We lost a lot of games bysix points or less.

“I know this was a very disappointing season but I believe we cangrow from it,” she continued. “We must believe in each other andbelieve in ourselves.”

Diamond Herring received the Panther Award. The Best DefensivePlayer and Scholastic Awards went to senior Audora Hill. PreciousPatterson, one of two seniors on the squad, was named TeamCaptain.

Tiakara Kelly was recognized as Best Offensive Player and freshmanFredericka Fairman was named Rookie of the Year.

Coach Williams spoke eloquently about the junior varsity squads. “Iconsider it a privilege to coach you and I’m proud of you asindividuals.

“Basketball helps you deal with the challenges of life,” hecontinued. “When you are in the game of life, you must be ready tostand up.

“I want to thank the parents for encouraging your children athome.”

Wilson said future basketball banquets would be held the Mondayafter spring break. He thanked Donnie Mitchell and his Broma’sstaff for providing a delicious banquet meal.