VALDOSTA—The state playoff dreams of the Valdosta and Lowndes boys’ basketball teams came to an early end when both squads fell in the first round. 

Valdosta

Many saw this season as a rebuilding year for Valdosta, but head coach James Lee knew the talent within his young squad. With 11 of 14 players gaining their first varsity experience, the Wildcats exceeded expectations, proving their ability by battling for the region championship and earning a spot in the state playoffs.

Senior Jabarri Williams went out on a high note, earning the honor of Region Player of the Year. Williams took on an important leadership role on the team to help accelerate the molding process for the fresh athletes. 

Another influential senior, Brandon Brown, quickly became a must-watch player at Valdosta games due to his excellence on both sides of the court. Shooting 44 percent from the three-point line, Brown showed his impact with multiple game-winners and 25-point games.

Falling in the first round of the state playoffs to Etowah’s Eagles, coach Lee took time to reflect on the season and what the Wildcats could improve on moving forward. 

“Next year, if we can close that skill gap, shoot the ball better as a team, and continue to build our IQ by watching film, I think we have a chance to really make a run at a state championship next year,” he said. 

Looking ahead, Lee believes the Wildcats are on the brink of something special. 

“I feel like our boys’ basketball program is about to take that next leap to really be considered with those traditional powerhouses up north who can compete in football and basketball,” stated Lee. “I think we have the tools to do so right here in Valdosta at Valdosta High.”

Lowndes

Meanwhile, across town, the Lowndes Vikings entered the postseason as a No. 1 seed but learned the hard way that no opponent can be taken lightly in the state playoffs. A first-round loss to No. 4 seed Cherokee High School served as a tough lesson for the Vikings. 

“Numbers don’t lie, but they tell stories,” said head coach Reshon Benjamin, reflecting on the loss.

Lowndes’ season was built on a foundation of hard work and unity, dating back to early-morning weightlifting sessions in August, where the team set its sights on a region championship. 

Benjamin praised his team’s commitment, noting the impact of their climb to region champions for the third time in four years. “It says a lot about how much hard work the guys put in and just how serious they are about their craft,” he said. “It also shows how special of a unit they are and how special things can happen when people come together.”

With ten seniors returning next year, all fully bought into the program, Benjamin is confident that the Vikings will be back stronger. With a host of standout seniors graduating, the up-and-comers have big shoes to fill. 

One such set of shoes is that of Kam Jackson, who coach Benjamin says will be used as a reference for players coming through Lowndes for years to come. 

“When you see the awards, the accolades, and the highlights, there is a body of work that has been put in place for all of those things to happen,” said coach Benjamin regarding Kam Jackson’s time at Lowndes High.

While both teams’ playoff runs ended sooner than hoped, both programs believe the 2024-25 season laid the foundation for even greater success in the years ahead.