The leading scorers for Choctaw County's championship boys and girls basketball teams will continue their careers at the junior college level. In a ceremony at the school last week, Akeem Kirkwood signed with Itawamba Community College and Brysa Maxwell with Holmes Community College.
Kirkwood averaged 17 points per game in leading the Chargers to the Region 4-3A championship and the third round of the MHSAA 3A playoffs. He totaled 66 points in three playoff games as Choctaw County defeated Mantachie and Amanda Elzy before suffering a one-point loss to Tylertown to finish 21-10.
“When I went there the gym caught my eye. They have the best facilities,” Kirkwood said of Itawamba. “I felt welcome there.”
He is undecided on what he will study, but he definitely plans to move on to a four-year college after Itawamba.
“They're getting a very good player, someone they can develop,” Choctaw County coach Gary Beals said of Itawamba. “He brings a lot to the table. I'm excited to see what they can do with him because he can play the 1 (point guard), 2 (shooting guard) or 3 (small forward).”
The Lady Chargers (23-11) also won 4-3A and reached the playoff quarterfinals with wins over North Pontotoc and Ruleville Central before losing to Jefferson Davis County. Maxwell led the team in scoring at 17.1 points per game and steals (3.3) and was second in rebounds with 7.9 per game.
“They guaranteed me more playing time,” Maxwell said of her decision to attend Holmes. “That way I can get more exposure because I'm planning on going to a university.”
She plans to study sports medicine, but doesn't know where she will be headed after Holmes. “I'm just hoping someone wants me.”
Coach Cory Guyton praised Maxwell's dedication and hard work. “If she keeps that mind set, that great work ethic, she will be great at the next level.”
