Boyd Christian High School senior Joelah Solomon signed Tuesday to play basketball with Motlow State Community College and pursue his education in criminal justice.
Solomon was always in the top three when it came to game day performance for the Broncos, who made it all the way to nationals before their season ended just shy of a Division VI championship win.
“It’s my first signing of the season,” said new Motlow Buc head coach Arthur Latham. “I’m happy to be here. It’s great to have a local player sign. It’s big for the community and the school.”
Solomon has not decided on a specific part of criminal justice he wants to pursue, and is beginning with general studies in the field
“I’m proud and excited they want me to play,” Solomon said. “I’ve always put everything I’ve had into it and it’s wonderful I have the opportunity to pursue it at the next level.”
Solomon’s is the second Boyd Christian High School signing in two weeks as Erin Cantrell signed with Freed Hardeman to play basketball. He’s the fourth so far this year as Trey Cantrell signed with Lindsey-Wilson College and Morgan DeWeese signed with Bryan College, both for basketball.
Cantrell’s parents, Joe and Veronica, were on hand to support their son’s decision.
“We are extremely blessed and thankful to God for making all of this possible. We are proud of our son's athletic accomplishments,” said Veronica Cantrell. “But most of all we are proud of his spiritual accomplishments and the young man he is growing up to be. He has endured many challenges. He stayed focused. He has worked very hard. He set a goal and never gave up.”
She continued, “Motlow is a great school and they have a top-notch basketball program, a perfect fit for Joelah. His family and friends are very proud of him and grateful for this opportunity and look forward to the next chapter in his life. Special thank you to coach Lucas Majors, coach Ryan Mason, coach Brent Warren, Edgar Morales and Boyd guidance counselor Allison Stiles and the FC Boyd Christian School staff, teammates and student body.”
Coach Lucas Majors led the Broncos to a winning season and national bid this year, and remembers how much Solomon has contributed to the entire team.
“Committed, dedicated and humble, those are just a few of Joelah’s traits that shined throughout this season. He’s a natural leader and puts his team before himself,” Majors said. “He made the decision to rise above the negativity that surrounds us in today’s world and set the right example for his school and community. That’s so uncommon in young people today, and for that I’m proud of him most.”