Staff Triumph Over Alumni in Thrilling Basketball Showdown
In the midst of a spirited week of basketball games and campus events, O'Neal Alumni Relations and Athletics revived the long-anticipated Staff vs. Alumni basketball game.
Officiated by varsity girls head coach Donna Taylor and student referees Kennedi Hamner (‘26) and Max Pashley (‘25), the game brought together competition, humor, and camaraderie in front of a packed gym.
Pre-game interviews revealed high confidence among the alumni, while staff expressed mild concerns about competing against a stacked alumni lineup featuring:
- Matt Wilson ('03)
- Chris Payton ('10)
- John Schoemmell ('10)
- Jalen Lindsey ('22)
- Josh Manning ('22)
- Malachi Ward ('22)
- Trey Black ('23)
- Phillip Hancock ('23)
- Holt Neville ('23)
- Nick Joyce ('24)
The staff team set an early tone with a seamless scoring play by Coach Faxon (MS Girls) and Coach Fitz (MS & Varsity Boys). Alumni star Matt Wilson ('03) quickly answered with a commanding post put-back to kick off the alumni's offensive showcase.
Throughout the game, the staff team displayed remarkable shooting skills, led by sharpshooters Coach Pierce (Strength and Conditioning) and Coach Chris (MS & Varsity Boys Assistant). Surprise performances by Mr. Williamson (MS Soccer) and Coach Lance (Athletic Director) delighted the crowd, while Mason Kinn (Track) and Brianna Taylor (Varsity Girls Assistant) brought relentless energy. James Lindsey (MS & Varsity Boys Assistant) dominated the paint, securing rebounds and creating critical second-chance opportunities.
The alumni team delivered highlight-worthy plays, including electrifying dunks and deep-range shots. Despite their skill and energy, the staff team eked out a nail-biting overtime victory, clinching the game with a 3-point lead.
The event would not have been possible without the coordination and support of alumni relations and the athletics department. This revived Falcon tradition brought joy and laughter to the O’Neal community, setting the stage for more memorable matchups in the future.
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