The Swainsboro basketball program gathered last week for its annual banquet, an evening dedicated to celebrating the hard work, growth, and achievements of the cheerleaders, girls’ basketball team, and boys’ basketball team. The event brought together athletes, coaches, families, and supporters to reflect on the season, recognize accomplishments, and honor the commitment it takes to represent the Tiger program.
That tone was set early in the evening by Coach Fred Weeks, who delivered a powerful and straightforward message centered on effort, discipline, and self-belief. He challenged the athletes to give their best regardless of circumstances, block out distractions, and stay committed to the work. Emphasizing that success is not about what you have but how you apply yourself, Weeks reminded everyone in attendance to stay focused, believe in their vision, and never forget where they come from.
The evening’s awards began with the Swainsboro cheerleading program, led by head coach Monica Y. Pace, as the team was recognized for its energy, spirit, and dedication throughout the season.
Ten cheerleaders received participation medals: Lauri Allen, London Clark, Alastoria Eskew, Moriah Graves, Jamariyah Howard, Maranda Jones, Malyiah Jones, Aryah Lowe, Darryl McKinney, and Alajah Wesby.
Alastoria Eskew and Malyiah Jones were named Most Improved, while Jamariyah Howard, Maranda Jones, and Alajah Wesby earned Most Spirited honors. The Best Jump awards were presented to Malyiah Jones and Darryl McKinney.
Lauri Allen was recognized with the Character Award and also earned Cheerleader of the Year honors, highlighting her leadership and impact on the program.
The Tiger Award was presented to Alastoria Eskew, Maranda Jones, Moriah Graves, and Jamariyah Howard for their commitment and representation of the program’s values.
Academic excellence remained a major focus, with Lauri Allen, London Clark, Alastoria Eskew, Moriah Graves, Maranda Jones, and Malyiah Jones recognized as current honor graduates. Maranda Jones and Malyiah Jones were also honored with the Highest Average Award as members of the top ten in their graduating class.
Senior plaques were awarded to Lauri Allen, Jamariyah Howard, and Alajah Wesby, with Lauri Allen also receiving the Senior Honor Graduate Award.
From there, the night transitioned into a celebration of the Swainsboro Lady Tigers basketball team and a season that saw both team and individual success.
The Lady Tigers finished the season with an impressive 21-6 overall record, including a 21-5 mark in the regular season. They secured a third-place finish in Region 3A Division I and earned a trip to the state playoffs, advancing to the first round.
Academic excellence was a major highlight of the evening, with 14 players earning Academic Medals for maintaining a 3.5 GPA or higher throughout the year. Those recognized included Jalaya Freeman, Bella Blanford, Kali Brown, Ar’Shonti Greene, Kaitlyn Hughes, Tameeyah Kingsberry, A’acaylah Murphy, Kimiya Freeman, Kandis Smith, Isis Trice, McKinley Walden, and Abigail Wilks. As a team, 83 percent of the players maintained a B average or higher, with 71 percent achieving A averages.
Two players stood out at the top academically. Isis Trice earned the JV Highest Academic Award with a perfect 4.0 GPA, while McKinley Walden received the Varsity Highest Academic Award, also finishing with a 4.0 academic and cumulative average.
On the court, A’acaylah Murphy was named Region 3A Division I Player of the Year and earned All-State honors, representing the South team. She also took home the team’s MVP award after averaging 15 points and 10 rebounds per game, earning the nickname “Double Double Queen.”
Kimiya Freeman was recognized as Offensive Player of the Year, averaging 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 steals per game, while McKinley Walden earned Defensive Player of the Year honors with an all-around stat line of 14 points, 8 rebounds, 7 steals, and 6 assists per game. Walden also earned Rookie of the Year, capping off an impressive first season.
Jalaya Freeman and Kali Brown were named Most Improved and also received Coaches Awards for their dedication and growth throughout the season. Tameeyah Kingsberry was honored as 6th Man of the Year for her contributions off the bench.
Region honors were also awarded across the roster. Kimiya Freeman and McKinley Walden earned First Team All-Region honors, while Kali Brown and Jalaya Freeman were named to the Second Team. Tameeyah Kingsberry received Honorable Mention recognition.
Senior recognition highlighted the careers of Tameeyah Kingsberry, A’acaylah Murphy, Jalaya Freeman, and Alyssa McGee, who were each presented with senior plaques to honor their time and impact within the program.
The junior varsity team was also recognized, finishing the season 4-5 while embracing the message to “continue to get better.” Ar’Shonti Greene was named JV MVP, Paris Spann earned Defensive Player of the Year, Isis Trice was recognized as Offensive Player of the Year, and Kandis Smith and Kaitlyn Hughes were named Most Improved.
Assistant coaches Serah Kelly and Rentavious Brown were also recognized for their contributions to the program.
The Swainsboro Tigers boys’ basketball program was also recognized for its accomplishments, with several players earning postseason honors.
For the varsity team, Lj Morgan and Frankie Barnes were named First Team, while Jabios Smith and Shannon Benjamin earned Second Team honors. Lj Morgan was named MVP, while Shannon Benjamin received Best Offensive Player honors and Frankie Barnes was recognized as Best Defensive Player.
RJ Johnson earned 6th Man honors, Keenen Kelly was named Most Improved, and Jabios Smith was recognized as Mr. Rebound. Calynn Foots received the Hustle Award, while Marcus Watkins was honored with the Sportsmanship Award. Lj Morgan and Shannon Benjamin were recognized for their academic achievements.
At the junior varsity level, Ty’kevious Worthing was named MVP. Jayvion Sherrod earned Best Offensive Player, Quintin Dukes was recognized as Best Defensive Player, and Zi’len Boynton received 6th Man honors. Kyle Johnson was named Mr. Rebound, while Chase Banks earned both Most Improved and Academic honors.
To close out the night, the program took a moment to honor its legacy as the team celebrated the unveiling of a photo of Coach Leroy Jordan, which will be displayed alongside his state championship team portrait. The display highlights the many accolades and accomplishments he achieved during his time leading the Swainsboro Tigers, serving as a lasting reminder of the standard of excellence that continues to shape the program today.
The evening as a whole was a joyous occasion filled with pride, reflection, and celebration. It was a night that brought together players, coaches, families, and supporters who all play a role in the success of the program. Appreciation was extended to everyone in attendance for their continued support, as well as to those who work behind the scenes to make moments like this possible. A special thank you goes out to Ay Wey Mexican Restaurant for providing the meal and helping make the night even more enjoyable. As the program continues to build on its foundation, the banquet served as a reminder that the Swainsboro Tigers are supported by a strong and unified community.
