Head spinning, sweat pouring, and teammates yelling, the buzzer sounds. Kobe Franklin (12) has just finished his last high school basketball game. Playing for all four years, Franklin joined the 1000 point club this season and has decided to continue his basketball career at Maryville College. Looking back at these years, his biggest takeaway is that hard work goes a long way.

“I have learned that if you want something, you will have to work for it. There [are] no handouts,” Franklin said.

This year the boys’ basketball team won a regional game for the first time in years. Overall winning 17 games this season, two of which were neutral tournament games, this year has been a good season for the Panthers. Feeling proud and excited for the next step, Franklin expresses his highlights of this year.

“My favorite memory of the season is when we got a first region win for the first time in a long time. We came into the season wanting to do something different and do something the school hasn’t done in years. My career highlight would also be when I hit my 1000th point at our home game,” Franklin said.

Franklin has the opportunity to continue playing basketball as a Scot at Maryville College. This achievement was a dream come true.

“I am very excited to get to continue my career at Maryville. It’s been a dream of mine since I was little. I’ve always wanted to play at the next level,” Franklin said.

With that being said, it has been both rewarding and bittersweet for Franklin. The Panthers ended up losing in their third tournament game against Fulton. It was a hard fought game and each player played their best. Franklin expresses his love for his team all the way to the end.

“I’m proud of the accomplishments I have made throughout my career… and I enjoyed having one last ride with my boys,” Franklin said.

Playing for all four years of highschool, Franklin was able to reach many milestones. From personal achievements to developing a brotherhood, he is ready for the next level. Year after year, playing with the same people and creating a long lasting bond is the true meaning of team sports.