WARSAW — Summer basketball tipped off in a big way at James Kenan High School as the Tigers hosted their third annual Summer Basketball Youth Camp, bringing together approximately 60 young athletes from Warsaw and surrounding communities for a three-day event focused on skill development, mentorship, and community engagement.
The camp served as an opportunity for James Kenan players and coaches to give back to the next generation of athletes. Throughout the event, campers received instruction in basketball fundamentals and learned valuable lessons about teamwork, sportsmanship, and dedication from current Tigers players and coaching staff.
Under the leadership of Coach Taylor Jones and James Kenan Tiger Athletics, the program continues to emphasize building relationships within the community while helping young athletes grow both on and off the court.
Summer Showcase Brings Area Teams Together
Following the youth camp, James Kenan hosted a summer basketball showcase featuring several area programs, including Wayne Christian, East Duplin, and North Johnston. The event provided teams with valuable offseason competition while allowing players to sharpen their skills ahead of the upcoming season.
The Tigers opened competition against the North Johnston Panthers in an exciting matchup that showcased both teams’ determination and defensive intensity.
Tigers Defeat Panthers Behind Strong Defensive Effort
James Kenan wasted little time getting on the scoreboard as No. 3 Kentrell Morrissey opened the game with a strong layup. North Johnston quickly responded with baskets of its own and briefly grabbed the lead.
The Panthers continued to apply pressure early, but the Tigers battled back from a five-point deficit to regain momentum. Strong defensive play and timely scoring helped James Kenan take control heading into halftime with a 16-11 advantage.
The second half featured more defensive intensity from the Tigers, whose aggressive play disrupted North Johnston’s offensive rhythm. The Panthers answered with two consecutive baskets, refusing to back down, but James Kenan’s defense ultimately proved to be the difference.
The Tigers maintained control throughout the remainder of the contest and secured a 36-26 victory over the Panthers.
Final Score: James Kenan Tigers 36, North Johnston Panthers 26
Bright Future Ahead for James Kenan Tigers
The early summer success is an encouraging sign for a James Kenan program that returns several key contributors from last season’s impressive squad.
Veteran players Kentrell Morrissey, Jesus Vazquez, Keyshawn Murray, and Trip Phipps provide valuable experience and leadership heading into the 2026-27 campaign. The Tigers also expect an immediate impact from newcomers Zavion Woodard and Kingston Dunn, who were standout performers at the Junior Varsity level.
Post-Interview
I had the opportunity to speak with James Kenan, Athletic Director, and Head Basketball Coach Taylor Jones about what this event means to both the players and the community.
Jones said, “This camp helps bridge the gap between our players and the younger kids in the community. When they come out and watch us play throughout the season, they already have that connection with our athletes. Our players performed extremely well during today’s showcase. We’re a fast-paced team, and we love to play that way. I’m proud of these young men and women for coming out and supporting the camp throughout the entire event.”