By Robert Wilson
Hillcrest Christian School hasn’t won a MAIS Overall Tournament championship since the Cougars won three in four years in 2000, 2001 and 2003.
Hillcrest is now three wins from bringing another gold ball home, and Jaivyn Carter is a big reason why.
The 6-foot-3 senior forward averaged 16.7 points and 19 rebounds in three games and led Hillcrest to a MAIS Class 3A state runner-up finish, coming within two points of a state championship, last week.
For his outstanding performance, Carter has been named the Tatum and Wade/Mississippi Scoreboard Metro Jackson Boys Basketball Player of the Week.
Carter had 12 points and 17 rebounds in a 33-31 victory over Regents of Oxford in the quarterfinals, 17 points and 19 rebounds in a 69-53 victory over Tunica Academy in the semifinals and 22 points and 21 rebounds in a 69-68 loss in overtime to West Memphis, Ark., in the championship game.
He is averaging 14 points and 12 rebounds this season for 20-10 Hillcrest.
His career highs are 26 points against River Oaks, La., and 22 rebounds against Clinton Christian this season.
“From Day One, Jaivyn has been the heart and soul of our team,” Hillcrest Christian coach Greg Thedford said. “His leadership on and off the court has been nothing short of inspiring. Whether it’s his relentless effort on both ends of the floor, his basketball IQ of his ability to rally his team when we need it most, Jaivyn has set a standard of excellence. This recognition is a testament to his consistent effort, focus, and passion for the game. He doesn’t just want to be the best on the court; he strives to be the best teammate and performing player and it shows in everything he does. We’re incredibly proud of Jaivyn, and this honor is just another example of his commitment to the game and his team.”
Carter averaged 8.9 points and 9.4 rebounds last year as a junior for Hillcrest Christian. He transferred from Terry High after his sophomore season.
Carter is the son of Julius and Renee Carter. Julius played football at Forest Hill and went to Mississippi State. Renee played basketball at Forest Hill and went to Hinds Community College. Carter’s sister, Jasmine, is a cheerleader and is in the band at Byram Middle School. Carter’s grandfather, Clayton Scott, and great aunt Rose Scott are strong supporters of Carter.
Hillcrest defeated Claiborne, La., Academy 78-60 in the first round of the Overall Monday at Mississippi in Clinton. The Cougars play Jackson Prep, the third-place team from Class 6A, in the quarterfinals Monday at 6 p.m.
Mississippi Scoreboard selects a boys basketball player from Hinds, Madison, or Rankin counties each week. Coaches can nominate a player by text or call to Robert Wilson at 601.506.2276.
WEEK ONE: Phil Nelson, Ridgeland
WEEK TWO: Jamarion Fleming, Canton
WEEK THREE: Mike Williams, Germantown
WEEK FOUR: Ben Segrest, Jackson Prep
WEEK FIVE: Caleb Gaitor, Jackson Academy
WEEK SIX: Kevin Roberts, Jackson Prep
WEEK SEVEN: Wiggy Ball, Hartfield Academy
WEEK EIGHT: Mike Williams, Germantown
WEEK NINE: Marcus Goodloe, Jackson Academy
WEEK TEN: Kaden Arterberry, Pearl
