By Walter Scott Jr.
One of L.C. Bird’s standouts made her college commitment. S’Zahria Jones is headed to Virginia Wesleyan.
The senior only played one season with L.C. Bird, but made an impact. Jones had played three years at point guard for Hermitage before. She scored 1,050 of her 1,300 career points as a Panther, and for the Skyhawks she earned first team All-Region 5B honors.
Jones made key plays in big games for the Skyhawks. Her Feb. 3 buzzer-beater helped to complete a two game sweep of Cosby. Her 24 points and clutch shooting helped Bird beat the Titans 51-50.
“Z’s timing was perfect. I would have loved to coach her all four years,” said L.C. Bird coach Chevette Waller. “She brought experience, work ethics, and leadership immediately.”
Virginia Wesleyan University is a Division III college in Virginia Beach that had a record of 6-20 last season, going 4-14 in the ODAC. Jones’s talent will, for sure, help their team get back on track. Her versatility in playing multiple positions could help her crack the rotation early in her college time.
Point guard Tyler Henderson of the boy’s team also committed this week, to Anderson (S.C.) University.
Henderson, the lone senior for the Skyhawks, had big shoes to fill in 2019-20. His play earned him first team All-Region 5B honors.
The 5-9 guard filled the stat sheet multiple times for L.C. Bird last season. One example would be his game against Monacan on Jan. 15, where he had 22 points, 10 assists, and 4 steals. His effort on both sides of the ball led his team to a 61-47 victory.
“Tyler will bring toughness and competitiveness to the Anderson program,” said L.C. Bird basketball coach Troy Manns. “[Coach] Jeff Brookman is a good guy who works hard, treats his players fairly, and wins.”
There’s a connection between Anderson and this area, as their roster features Rahim Jenkins and Mack Burgett. Henderson will be the third Skyhawk on the team. Manns, during his time as an assistant at Radford, coached with Brookman, leading to a big time connection.
