Gentry High basketball player Darrius Clark was one of two Delta students selected to play in the Mississippi Association of Coaches 2018 Mississippi Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center North/South All-Star Basketball game held in Clinton on March 23.
Clark and Cleveland Central’s Leroy Cotton III were part of the 12-man team chosen by coaches Robert Green and Jonathan Ashley to represent the north end of the state. Coach Chico Potts said he had two Gentry players under consideration but only Clark was chosen.
Although Potts was grateful that Clark was able to compete with the other all-stars, he expressed his disappointment that player Robert Bell was not chosen. “I would like to see more kids from the Delta participate in things like this,” Potts said. He asserted that oftentimes Delta students get overlooked when it comes to these type events.
Potts said a panel of judges who has either heard about or had an opportunity to see the students play across the season chose the players. He said their skills on the court plus the overall team record was also a determining factor.
Standing at a lofty 6 feet 5 inches, Clark, a small forward, scored seven points during the matchup that helped the North team secure a victory over the South-end team.
Clark said, “I would like to thank God first, who’s the head of my life, because without Him I wouldn’t be able to play the sport I love.” In addition, he also expressed his gratitude toward his family and coaches, especially Coach Potts for pushing him and making him a better player. He asserted that they helped him get to where he is today.
Clark also offered thanks to the community-at-large for its support. “It was a great experience as well to play and represent my city, I really enjoyed it and promise there’s more to come,” added Clark.
