Blaze Basketball Preview
Girls’ Photos Courtesy of Kimberly Baumann; Boys’ Photos by Jared Robinson Blackman Basketball has become a powerhouse team in these past few years.The boys won a state title in 2013, and the girls won back-to-back state titles in 2013 and 2014, along with a national title in 2013. The talent is there and if all goes to plan, we will have two more Gold Balls to add to the trophy case at the end of the season.
Lady Blaze Hoops: Dynasty. That is what is at stake this season. The word is used often in sports, but if this team can win its third straight title, then it’s a dynasty. plain and simple. Our new head coach, Jessica Jackson, is no stranger to Blackman Basketball. Jackson was an assistant coach at Blackman for seven years, before heading to Stewarts Creek to be the head coach for two years.
Crystal Dangerfield (UConn commit) is the best Class of 2016 point guard in the world. She has done it twice before, and now Crystal has her eyes set on a third state title.
Coach Jackson said about Crystal, “The thing I respect most about her is that she’s never satisfied.”
Jazz Bond (South Florida commit) is our 6’5 center and she leads the team in boards. Her height and length help our team bolster the middle of the court.
This team led by Crystal and Jazz should be able to complete the 3-peat.
Blaze Hoops: Making the state tournament is an accomplishment in its own right, but here at Blackman, it’s Championship or bust. The team had two seniors graduate last year, but Coach Barry Wortman believes that we have the talent to replace their production.
“Cedriontis Wilson and Donavan Sims will be replacing Isaiah Hart’s production at point guard,” said Wortman.
One of Blackman’s cornerstones is their ability to develop players over four years to help them reach their full potential.
“Work ethic, accountability, as well as skill development has helped the team be prepared for each season,” added Wortman.
This team has been there before, and now they are hungrier than ever to get another state title.
