‘Determined to succeed’
AHS grad Randle credits coaches, teammates on journey to next level
TEXARKANA, Ark. — Whether it’s draining buzzer-beaters at home or getting his teammates in the right position, Arkansas High senior guard Jaylon Randle was the ultimate teammate for the Razorbacks.
As a two-year varsity lettermen, Randle averaged 18.6 points per game in the Hogs backcourt.
The Razorbacks narrowly missed the playoffs last season, but Randle is appreciative of the time spent with his teammates and coaches.
“Last season didn’t go as planned,” Randle said. “I really enjoyed playing with my teammates and also being able to be coached by Sam Weaver my senior year. Coach Weaver has really helped my game the past few years and I appreciate him for that.
“I’m going to miss the coaching of Sam Weaver. He’s really taught me a lot. He’s pushed me through times I thought I wasn’t going to do so well. He kept my head up and he made opportunities happen for me. He’s one of the strongest male figures in my life. He helped me mature a lot.”
Randle also recently received a junior college opportunity to extend his playing career.
“South Arkansas Community College in El Dorado offered me a scholarship a few days ago,” Randle said. “I’m excited about the opportunity and hopefully I’ll be able to make the best of it. I’m undecided in my major but I think I have time to figure that out.”
Randle has also found time to fit in workouts during this unique time period of a spring Dead Period.
“I’ve been going to the park in Sand Flat to get in a few games with some of my friends,” Randle said. “I try to get as many shots up as I can. I want to keep my game going as much as possible. I’m trying not to get rusty.”
Randle drained a deep buzzer-beater on February 14 against El
Dorado at Razorback Gym, which was popular enough to make rounds on the internet.
“Stuff like that is good but I feel it’s hype,” Randle said. “Hype doesn’t last long. If you put in the work and listen to your coaches, you’ll be able to last longer than hype.
“I’ve put in a lot of work. I wish I would’ve be able to made few more memories with my classmates. It’s kinda weird with everything that’s going on right now. I’m prepared for the real world, but I would’ve like to have had a little more time with my friends. I will put in enough work to be successful. I’m determined to succeed.”