Spring Woods High School, long overshadowed by its five-year basketball losing streak, is experiencing a seismic shift this season, thanks to three brothers: Tavionn, Torian, and Trae Pickens. The trio has not only brought a renewed sense of hope to the Tigers but has also captured the imagination of fans across the district.
“The Pickens brothers are incredibly special and privileged to be around,” said Spring Woods head basketball coach Zechariah Roberson. “They’ve played a crucial role in our success this season with their unmatched energy and fierce competitiveness.”
The Tigers last tasted significant success in the 2018-2019 season when they finished first in 6A Region III District 17 with a 13-3 record. Since then, the team has struggled to regain its footing. But this year, the Pickens brothers are rewriting the narrative as they are first in 5A Region III District 21 with a record of 9-1.
“We’ve been fortunate to have six returning players from last season, including all five starters,” said Roberson. “Tavionn and Trae started all of last season as juniors. Torian started last season on our JV team, and after 10 games, he was moved up to help with depth at the point guard position. He took over as a starter just before district play.”
Tavionn and Torian Pickens, identical twins, and their younger brother Trae have played basketball together for five years. Their journey began in the Spring Branch Memorial Sports Association (SBMSA), a developmental program emphasizing teamwork and skill development. Now, they’re bringing that chemistry and experience to the high school court, creating a trio that’s nearly impossible to stop.
“The chemistry we have is unmatched,” said Tavionn, who leads the team in points (337), rebounds (148), and field goal percentage (73%), according to MaxPreps. His dominant play was on full display during the Silver Championship game of the HISD Winter Tournament, where he scored 28 points to earn MVP honors.
The brothers’ bond was strengthened during a challenging period in their lives. In ninth grade, their father left the family and moved to Alaska. Each brother dealt with the situation differently. For Tavionn and Trae, the adjustment meant taking on more responsibilities at home, like babysitting and cooking. And basketball became a vital coping mechanism for Torian.
“Dad leaving was tough for me,” said Torian. “When I was little, he and I would go outside and work on dribbling together; he’s the reason I got into the sport. Basketball helped me process everything.”
This resilience is evident in his playmaking abilities. He leads the team in assists (61) and continues to refine his ball-handling under pressure.
The brothers bring unique influences and aspirations to the court, each reflecting their playing styles and goals. Tavionn is determined to carve out his path, choosing not to model his game after any NBA players. After trying other sports like track and football, which failed to capture his interest, basketball became his natural calling. Beyond the game, Tavionn is exploring college opportunities to study sports medicine or culinary arts, showcasing his diverse ambitions.
Torian draws inspiration from University of Auburn guard Tahaad Pettiford and Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving. His dedication to improving his shooting and ball-handling skills reflects his dream of playing basketball at the collegiate level. Torian’s focus and work ethic highlight his commitment to growing as a player and achieving his sports aspirations.
“I like how Tahaad Pettiford is great at getting the shot he wants, and Kyrie has creative finishes and plays comfortably under pressure,” said Torian.
Trae stands out for his scoring ability, rebounding, and leading his team in blocks. He looks up to Duke forward Cooper Flagg and Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant as sources of motivation.
“Cooper Flagg plays aggressively the entire game, and I try to play the same way because my team needs me. Also, Durant is great on both sides of the floor,” said Trae.
While Trae doesn’t plan to pursue college basketball, his passion for the game fuels his ambition to become a physical therapist for the NBA, allowing him to stay connected to the sport he loves.
The Tigers’ turnaround is undeniable, as the Pickens brothers’ leadership and talent have reignited the program’s competitive spirit. Tavionn’s scoring and rebounding dominance, Torian’s court vision, and Trae’s defensive prowess have created a perfect storm for success.
This season, the Tigers are not just playing to win—they’re playing to change the perception of Spring Woods basketball. With the Pickens brothers at the helm, the program’s future looks brighter than ever.
As they continue to electrify the court and inspire their teammates, one thing is clear: the Pickens brothers are not just rebuilding a basketball team; they’re redefining what it means to be a Tiger.
