The Carver Middle School Girls and Boys Basketball Team has been dominating in the Lake County North District Division. Carver Middle School boys’ and girls’ basketball team has been named the North District Champions as both teams went 10-0 this season.

The boys’ basketball team is led by Coach Jabari Dunham. Dunham states, “I just give the glory to my lord and savior Jesus Christ for using me as a vessel, allowing me the opportunity to help mold young men to make a positive impact on society. The success is a testament to the boys working hard, playing together, and buying into the system. They have one goal and that’s to win, no matter who shines at the end of the day it’s only one thing that matters and that’s to win. “

Student athlete, scholar, and team captain for the boys’ team, Christian Gaillard, who’s the only player that has played for Carver since 6th grade states, “ I give glory to God. I know that I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.  I’ve watched our team grow over the last three years, I am proud to be a part of a team that works together, plays hard and embraces discipline and courage. “

Furthermore, student athlete, scholar, and 2nd team captain for the boys’ team, Noah Russell, who has played for Carver for two years, states, “We are grateful for a second opportunity to go to the championship. Second chances don’t always present themselves and it’s my goal to help put another basketball banner up at Carver.”

(The Carver Middle School Lady Raider basketball team.)

Coach Vappie is the head coach for the girls.  She shares, ” They are student athletes, with an emphasis on being a student first. They take pride in acquiring knowledge in the classroom so they can build on this skill on the court. We work together in practice, but it is the girls taking the lead to build and motivate each other. I see their talents, strengths, and role that they bring to the team. The players are the ones executing the hard work to truly comprehend what they bring to the team so that they can demonstrate teamwork. Because of their passion, they can be motivated learners alongside one another on the court. Being motivated has enabled them to understand the true definition of a student athlete and why the priority is on being a student FIRST. Which is why all of their success stems from their dedication and work ethic to one another and themselves. This was activated the first time they stepped on the court and began their season. I am extremely proud of them!” says coach Vappie.

Student athlete, scholar, and girls’ team captain LaTerrica Hammond, who has played for Carver for three years states, “ I feel like being a part of a 10-0 winning team is a great opportunity for not only me but the other girls to experience a great time with each other and to know what it feels like to win and be champions. I have watched this team grow over three years and I hope it continues. “

Additionally, student athlete, scholar, and second team captain, Ivyanna Banks-Rich, also a 3rd year player states, “ I feel proud and relieved. I pray and hope we win the championship and if not, it doesn’t matter because we are still undefeated, and we know we are an elite team.”

Mr. John Latimer, Carver’s athletic director states, “I am very proud of the girls’ and boys’ basketball team! They fought through a lot of adversity to make it back to the Lake County Championship game for the second year in row. It has been an honor to work with both teams and their coaches. I pray that we are blessed with bringing both championship trophies back to Raider Nation this year. “

The championship game will be on Wednesday Feb. 14, 2023 at Lake Sumter State College. Girls play at 4:30pm. Boys play at 5:30pm.