By JOSH FRYE
News Staff Writer
There are many stand-out student athletes that come through the area’s high schools but every once in a while, a player comes along who just takes the area high school sports scene by storm.
One of these remarkable young men has made his mark within the history books of Escambia County High School. Senior Lue Williams has been a 6’4″, 184-pound basketball powerhouse for the Blue Devils.
He has not only proven himself over the past year, but for all four years he has worn a Blue Devil jersey. Williams has played virtually every position within the game and has exceeded all expectations.
“Lue comes from a good family and is a great role-model and student athlete,” head coach Rodney Jackson said. “He is the backbone of our team,”
Williams grew up around the game of basketball and has spent the majority of his life on the court.
“Basketball runs in my family,” he said. “I have been involved in the game since I was three years old. My entire family is involved in the game and it’s something I love and hold dear to me.”
Williams has been able to set an unofficial school record in career points. So far, he has tallied 1,234 career points and that number will increase with the area tournament right around the corner within the next week.
“I am thankful to accomplish this goal and to be able to contribute to my team,” Williams said.
As with any senior, the end of Williams’ high school career is near. With the area tournament also comes an end to Williams’ high school basketball career.
“My team means everything to me,” he said. “We have had our ups and downs and have pulled each other through. I wouldn’t choose any other team to play for.”
Upon graduation this May, Williams plans to attend college, majoring in marketing and entrepreneurship, and play basketball. He is currently looking at attending the University of Alabama, Murray State or Coastal Alabama.
“It is going to be hard at first but I have a strong support system from my family and coaches and they will be able to help me through it,” Williams said. “Atmore is home for me and regardless of where I end up, I will always play for my hometown and school.”
Several people have played a major role in Williams’ life.
“Coach Jackson has always been a strong mentor to me and a father figure,” he said. “I have been under his leadership in basketball and football and I cannot thank him enough for the things he has taught me and he has done for me. I want my team to know to put God first and keep working. Above all always stay positive in every situation and things will work out.”
Williams is a strong leader on and off the court or the field. He is usually seen leading his team without putting himself above anyone else.
“He is a good kid,” Jackson said. “My entire teams are filled with kids who are of the highest quality of young men. They have supported me during my ups and downs with my health. I thank God for these young men. Williams is a great example and teammate. He always put his team and everyone else before himself.”
The Blue Devils will face UMS Wright in the area tournament at Williamson on February 7 at 6 p.m.
“I am nervous but we know what we need to do to win,” Williams said. “We want to accomplish something for our school that has not been done in a long time. We love our school, staff and town. We want to give them something that hasn’t happened in a long time.”