Through hard work and determination South Pike seniors DeAngelo Coleman and Dquerius Bullock are reaping the benefits as they look forward to showcase their talents at the college level.

     Coleman and Bullock have shined brightly for the Eagles as they performed on the basketball court and in track.

     On the court, Coleman and Bullock combined their talents and leadership to help direct the South Pike Eagles to an amazing season. South Pike finished with a 21-8 overall record and 8-2 in Region 7-4A action.

     “Both of these guys have been the nucleus of the team this past season,” said South Pike coach Joe Taylor. “They pushed each other and the other players to get better and play as a team.

     “The future really looks bright for these two athletes as long as they keep their priorities straight.”

     That kind of performance has earned Coleman and Bullock the title of Co-Mr. Basketball and Most Valuable Player honors on The DAILY LEADER’s 2012 All-Area Boys Basketball Team.

     Joining Coleman and Bullock on this year’s Dream Team are Terry Brown and J.J. Sutton of Wesson, David Haynes and Brandon Daniels of Lawrence County, Antony Green of Franklin County, Antonio Johnson of McComb and Jerekius Davis of Crystal Springs. The team was selected by the DL sports staff, with input provided by area high school and college coaches.

      DeAngelo Coleman, (5-9, Sr.) age 17, is a talented athlete that stars in both  basketball and track. He hasn’t decided on what college that he would like to play for but he is eager to begin. He plans to become a business owner.

     When asked about his season and Co-MVP, Coleman stated. “This was a good season. Everyone worked hard to better themselves and the team.

     “Dquerius Bullock is a great teammate. He is a hard worker and a good player.”

     Coleman enjoys playing for Coach Joe Taylor. “Coach Taylor is a father to the team. He wants the very best out of his players.”

     Coleman has an active sports life, but in school his favorite subject is math. Outside his busy sports schedule and school he enjoys watching Sportscenter. His favorite NBA team is the Lakers. His favorite player is Derrick Rose, who stars on the Chicago Bulls.

     Asked about his favorite food, Coleman said he likes fish. Ice Cream is his favorite dessert.

      Dquerius Bullock, (5-11, Sr.) age 18, is a tremendous athlete who is passionate for basketball and track. Bullock recently decided to attend Hinds Community Junior College where he will continue his career in track and basketball. He also plans to pursue a degree in physical education.

     When asked about his team’s season and his Co-MVP teammate, Bullock said. “Our team was unselfish. Everyone worked hard to improve and was dedicated to play.

     “Coleman is a good athlete and teammate. He works really hard in practice and it showed on game night.”

     Bullock expressed his thoughts on Coach Taylor. “He is a good coach. He is always around providing advice and helpful tips to make us grow as a team and as a individual.

     “He drills us hard during practice and expects nothing but the best from his players.”

     Bullock is looking forward to his college debut at Hinds. In academics his favorite subject is U.S. history. Away from the gym and track, he likes to watch the TV show NCIS. His favorite movie is “Marked for Death.” Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder are his favorite NBA player and team.

     Asked about his favorite food, Bullock said he likes chicken. Ice Cream is the favorite dessert.

      Terry Brown, 5-11 junior guard/forward, sparkled for the Wesson Cobras. He averaged10 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3 steals and 3 assists per game.

     “Terry is the sparkplug of our team,” said Wesson coach Rusty Newman. “He gives great effort on both ends of the floor and is always hustling for the ball. He is also one of our team captains.”

      J.J. Sutton, 6-0 junior forward, was the go to player when the team needed a score to rally the troops. He averages 10 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals and 3 assists per game.

     “J.J. was a big part of our offense,” said Newman. “He is really good at scoring or getting to the free throw line once we get it to him.”

      David Haynes, 6-4 senior forward, was the top playmaker for the Lawrence Count Cougars.  Hayes averaged 19 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 assists per game.

     “David is a versatile athlete who can play any position of the court,” said Lawrence County coach Pat Bridges, “I really believe that David has a bright future ahead of him.”

      Brandon Daniels, 6-5 senior center, gave the Cougars a threat in the low post both offensively and defensively. Daniels averaged 21.7 points, 10 rebounds per game.

     “Brandon is an all-around athletic catalyst,” said Bridges. “He is a very hard worker. He is a talented shooter and rebounder.”

      Antony Green, 6-5 senior center, was a force to be dealt with in the low post for the Franklin County Bulldogs. He averaged  11.4 points and 8.5 rebounds per game.

     “Antony is a great individual,” said Franklin County coach Chris Jordan. “He is a hard worker and a coachable athlete. He was one of our leaders in the post and a great defensive player.”

      Antonio Johnson, 5-8 sophomore guard, stepped up big and had a great year for the McComb Tigers. He averaged 17.1 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 assists per game.

     “Antonio is a very hard worker and three point shooter,” said McComb coach Hilton Harrell. “He is a great leader and excellent defensive player. He understand the game beyond his age. Antonio also is a great student with a 3.8 GPA. This year he carried us while filling in big shoes.”

      Jerekius Davis, 6-5 freshman guard, was the leading scorer for the Crystal Spring Tigers. The Tigers were eliminated in the South State 3A semifinals by Bailey. Davis averaged 19.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 assists per game.

     “Davis is a good players and a tremendous asset to our program,” said Crystal Springs coach Broderick Owens. “We are looking forward to next year as we continue to grow as a team.”