East Carteret has become a state power in 1A basketball the last few years under Coach Billy Anderson. The Mariners lost a heartbreaker 72-71 to Winston-Salem Prep in the 1A State finals 3 years ago, but got some revenge the next season in winning the title over the Phoenix 67-64. Last year, East Carteret (26-3) lost to eventual champs Voyager Academy 74-63 in the 1A Eastern Regional Semifinals.
One of Anderson's top returning players is back for his senior season to help lead the Mariners back in 2016-17. Senior point guard Jack Garrison IV is back after averaging 14.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 2.0 steals. During their playoff run, Garrison averaged over 29 points in that span.
Anderson had the following to say about his point guard. "First and foremost, Jack is a really good person. He is fun to be around. As far as a player, he is really going to open some eyes this year. He's a true gym rat and probably the most talented player I've coached."
A 6-1 point guard, Garrison has one official offer from Alcorn State, but has been getting some recruiting interest from Hampton, Navy, and South Carolina State. He is hoping another great season of hoops will garner some more interest.
NCPreps.com's Deana King caught up with Garrison and asked him about his thoughts on basketball and the upcoming 2016-17 season.
What is your thoughts on the upcoming 2016-17 hoops season for East Carteret?
"Coach Anderson is expecting me to play a big role this season. We lost Trevor Willis and Brennan Lewis so Coach expects me and De'Shaun Johnson to lead the team. I will have a major role on the team. Last year, we made it to the 1A regional semis and finished 26-3."
What have you worked on in the off-season?
"Over the summer, I've put up a couple thousand shots. My main focus was to get stronger. I've been faithful to the weight room. I also played with Garner Road AAU to play more competition. I've had a busy summer improving my game."
Did you attend any camps?
"I attended the GetMeRecruited Super60 Showdown Camp."
Have you heard from any colleges? If so, list them and the coaches?
"Hampton Coach Matt Hamilton has asked for our schedule this year. Also Maryland-Eastern Shore Head Coach has said he would be down to watch a game this year. Navy's coach has contacted my AAU coach. A lot of coaches have contacted my AAU coach."
What are your strengths on the court?
"My strengths are I'm a phenomenal shooter. I think my shooting and ball-handling are strenghts. I'm very quick and I watch a lot of film, so my basketball IQ is high. I'm a playmaker for the others. My biggest strength is I play to win."
What things do you need to work on?
"Sometimes I need to work on my shot selection."
What other sports or activities do you participate in?
"I played football my sophomore year and we won the conference."
What is your dream school?
"Kentucky Wildcats!"
Who is your favorite basketball player and why?
"Russell Westbrook is my favorite basketball player because he is fearless and I love the way he attacks the basket."
Who is your role model?
"My roles model is my father, Jack Garrison III. He has always been there for me and been by my side."
What are your goals at East Carteret this season?
"For this upcoming season, I want to win the state championship."
