Every year, Houston-area high school sports provide incredible individual and team performances, high drama, riveting competition, and down-to-the-wire finishes. To that end, 2024 was no different. In fact, 2024 delivered more than its share of comeback stories, groundbreaking happenings, historic runs, dynamic newcomers, and seasoned vets ready to make the transition to the next level.
Here are 10 of the most compelling local high school sports stories 2024 had to offer.
Worthing gets playoff win, heads to second round
The Worthing Colts reached the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 2010 after a thrilling 35-28 comeback win over Almeta Crawford. Trailing 21-3 at halftime, the Colts dominated the second half, showcasing their defensive strength and offensive explosiveness. Key players included senior running back Kwame Roy, junior kicker Pedro Garza, senior tight end Jacory Thurman (committed to Houston), senior quarterback Va’Shawn Smith and senior defensive leader Nathaniel Dillard. Despite their impressive 8-0 district record, the team faced skepticism due to playing in what some considered a watered-down HISD district. However, the Colts silenced critics with their playoff performance. Despite a powerful comeback in round one, in round two the Colts faced Tyler Chapel Hill and ultimately saw their season end with a 24-49 loss.
Kashmere celebrates 7 football college signings
HISD’s National Signing Day highlighted Kashmere High School, which celebrated seven football players committing to collegiate programs. This was the most football commits from any one school in HISD. Despite a modest 4A-1 Region III District 11 season, the Rams’ athletes proved their determination and camaraderie transcended football. Anthony Cook and Benton chose Trinity Valley, Nathan Crawford joined Sulross State and Kamden Terry headed to Howard Payne to pursue veterinary studies. Michael Smith committed to Henderson State with plans to study business and IT, while Kevin Mitchell Jr. and Robert Nash chose Midwestern State. The signees credited their success to brotherhood, dedication, and perseverance, inspiring future athletes to stay focused and work hard.
From Elkins to MLB: Hit king to top pick Braylon Payne shines
Fort Bend Elkins High School baseball star Braylon Payne, initially committed to the University of Houston, was selected 17th overall by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 2024 MLB Draft. A prolific player, Payne capped his senior year with a .531 batting average, becoming the all-time hits leader at Elkins High, surpassing former players Matt Carpenter, James Loney, Tristan Gray and Steven Truitt. Payne’s passion for baseball began at age five years old in Missouri City Little League and flourished under his father’s guidance and inspiration from Ken Griffey Jr. Payne’s high school journey exemplified hard work, humility and resilience.
Madison 2nd baseman Tyren Reaves has dentistry in his sights
High school senior Tyren Reaves, a four-year varsity second baseman for Madison High School, stood out in a sport with declining Black participation — now less than 7% in MLB. Inspired by his cousin Paul Davis and Astros star Jose Altuve, Reaves turned to baseball as both passion and escape. Following his grandmother’s passing in 2020, he faced emotional challenges but remained committed. With plans to attend Texas Southern University on an academic scholarship, Reaves aimed to walk onto the baseball team while majoring in biology. Influenced by his mother, a clinical director, Reaves will work toward a career in dental hygiene.
Dedication, passion define the incredible softball journey of Jada Cooper
Jada Cooper, a standout softball talent since age 4, joins Grand Canyon University (GCU) after an exceptional travel and high school career. Known for her dedication and humility, Cooper shined at Westside High, achieving a .448 batting average, 16 home runs, and 61 RBIs in her junior year, followed by stellar senior and summer showcase performances. Drawn to GCU’s winning culture, including three consecutive WAC championships, Cooper displayed talent that earned her the prestigious Arm & Hammer Jennie Finch Empowerment Award in 2023. As she transitions to collegiate play, Cooper continues to inspire with her leadership and excellence.
Last dance at Heights High for Kennedy Hill
For the first time, Houston Heights High School’s varsity softball team reached the fourth round of playoffs in 2024, led by senior shortstop Kennedy Hill. Hill excelled with 10 home runs, 44 RBIs, and a .758 slugging percentage. Supported by district MVP pitcher Haylie Jaime and dependable center fielder Laila Robins, the team showed remarkable heart. Starting softball at age 8, Hill gained experience with elite teams that prepared her for high school success. Set to play at the University of Incarnate Word while studying cybersecurity, Hill credits her father’s advice and national-level experience for her growth and inspiration.
Four teams run sub-40 in Texas State Meet 4×100 relay
For the first time in UIL track history, four schools completed the 4×100 boys relay with a time of 39 seconds. Atascocita finished first with a time of 39.14 seconds, followed by Duncanville who ran 39.47, Galena Park North Shore who ran 39.79 and Katy Tompkins who ran 39.85. Atascocita’s team, comprised of seniors Tory Blaylock, Landon Fontenot, Jordan Parker and Jelani Watkins, previously broke the national record with 38.92 at the Victor Lopez Classic. Each athlete brought unique strengths: Blaylock’s power, Fontenot’s endurance, Parker’s consistency and Watkins’ sheer speed. Under Coach Elton Ervin’s leadership and a unified program, the team achieved an undefeated season, a national record and a historic state championship.
Sterling phenom Leilani Johnson qualifies in 5 events
Leilani Johnson is a multi-sport athlete whose exceptional talent spans soccer, cheer, basketball, flag football and track and field. At the 5A HISD district meet, she qualified for five events at the area level, winning the 100-meter dash (12.79), 4×100-meter relay (51.66), long jump (16’6″), and triple jump (32’8.5″), while placing second in the 200 meters (26.72). Her achievements reflect a journey of perseverance through schools lacking sports programs, fueled by inspiration from runner Sha’Carri Richardson and guidance from her AAU coach. Johnson aspires to Olympic greatness, embodying resilience and athletic excellence with every leap and stride.
BTW star Chris McDermott leaves basketball fans anticipating future
Chris McDermott, a 6-foot-7 forward from Booker T. Washington High, kept fans guessing about his college choice in February, despite offers from Memphis, Ole Miss, Texas A&M and Georgetown. Averaging 20 points and a Texas-best 18.5 rebounds per game, McDermott transitioned from a football-loving youth to a dominant basketball player. His team finished undefeated in 4A Region III District 21 but fell to Silsby by nine points in the fifth round of playoffs. McDermott, a three-time District MVP, kept fans waiting until he ultimately decided to take his talents to Texas A&M University.
Ft. Bend Austin star Shun’teria Anumele surpasses 1,500 points
The Fort Bend Austin girls basketball team finished with a 15-1 record in 6A Region III District 20, sharing the co-district champion title with Hightower. Their playoff run ended in the regional quarter-finals with a 74-81 loss to Katy Seven Lakes. One standout player was Shun’teria Anumele, a Saint Louis University commit known for her competitive drive and exceptional shooting. Anumele overcame various challenges and transfers during his basketball journey, including a two-year hiatus due to eligibility issues. While many athletes celebrate reaching the 1,000-point milestone, Anumele scored over 1,500 points in her three years of playing high school basketball.
