The Jackson Tigers are headed to the FHSAA Final Four, and they’re bringing plenty of momentum with them. After a thrilling 61-52 victory over Florida State University High School in the Elite 8, Jackson is now set to face The Villages Charter in a highly anticipated showdown.
New Coach, New System, Same Winning Ways
This season has been one of change and triumph for Jackson. Under first-year head coach Byron Shemwell, the Tigers have adopted a new system, new structure, and new philosophy. Shemwell, a Columbia High School graduate who played collegiately at Edward Waters College, came to Jackson from Ponte Vedra, where he served as an assistant during back-to-back state championship appearances.
Shemwell had big shoes to fill, replacing legendary coach James Collins, who led Jackson to four state runner-up finishes in 15 years. But so far, Shemwell’s approach is paying off. Jackson boasts an impressive 28-2 record, even after replacing four of their five leading scorers from last year.
Star Players Stepping Up
Leading the charge for the Tigers is star guard Jahari Simmons, who scored 16 points in the victory over FSU and is averaging 16.0 points, 5.6 assists, and 2.4 steals per game this season. David Wilson also played a key role, adding 12 points in the Elite 8 matchup and averaging 12.9 points per game overall.
Senior night highlights 21pts 5 asts
— David Wilson ll (@DavidWilsonll) February 3, 2025
3rebs 4/7 3pt@ByronOtod @A4JaxTigers @CoachR_Barrera @mcoppersmith23 @coachdrew2003 @CoachQuigley2 @Coach_Bridge11 @LilReb22 @KaelibW01 @prephoopsfl @JUCOadvocate @RemoHoops @_proinsight @TweetsbyCoachP pic.twitter.com/YOEY2PI4BF
The Tigers have shown they can score from all over the court, averaging 65.2 points per game. In their Sweet 16 win over Walton, they cruised to a 74-30 victory with contributions from Tay’vion Lawson (14 points), Jayden Williams (12 points), and Simmons (13 points).
A Tough Challenge Ahead
Next up, Jackson faces The Villages Charter, a formidable opponent with a 25-5 record. The Buffaloes are led by head coach Colt McDowell and have a balanced scoring attack, with four players averaging double digits.
Their star player, Adyn Corbin, is a senior guard committed to Daytona State College. Corbin averages 17.5 points, 3.8 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. The Villages also rely on Aaron Britt Jr., a sharpshooter who scores 16.2 points per game. Britt Jr. has deep ties to Jacksonville, as both of his parents coached in the area.
The Buffaloes also have a significant height advantage with 6’7 Herly Brutus, 6’5 Ethan Bevis, and 6’8 Jomar Bernard patrolling the paint.
Speed vs. Size: Who Will Prevail?
While The Villages have the size, Jackson has the speed and balance. The Tigers spread the ball around with scoring threats at every position. Players like Jayden Williams, Tay’vion Lawson, Terrell Mosely, Corenzes Dennard, and Taishawn Thomas all average over six points per game. Additionally, Jackson’s defensive pressure is relentless, averaging over 10 steals per game.
Highlights vs Providence & Wolfson
— Jahari Simmons (@JahariSimmmons) February 3, 2025
Vs. Providence- 16pts,8ast,3stls
Vs. Wolfson- 11pts, 10ast, 2stls@ByronOtod @A4JaxTigers pic.twitter.com/ZGLC9BxI0n
This Final Four matchup promises to be a thrilling battle of speed versus size. Can Jackson’s quickness and team play overcome The Villages’ height and star power? Basketball fans won’t want to miss this exciting clash!
