Carver Middle School Basketball Teams Surge to Top of North Division

Girls and boys teams both have standout seasons, with coaches emphasizing more than just wins.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Carver Middle School's basketball program is making waves this season, with both the girls and boys teams rising to the top of the North Division. The Lady Raiders have continued their dominant run, closing out the regular season with a perfect 10-0 record. Meanwhile, the Red Raiders have emerged as a fast, physical and defensively dominant force under the leadership of a new coaching staff.

Why it matters

Carver Middle School's basketball success highlights the importance of strong coaching, player development, and a focus on more than just winning. The program's emphasis on accountability, teamwork, and personal growth sets an example for student-athletes in the community.

The details

The Carver Middle School girls basketball team has built a winning legacy, led by Coaches Vappie and Eugene. They have guided the Lady Raiders to four straight North District Championships since the 2022-23 academic year. On the boys side, Head Coach Wayne Watkins, Assistant Coach Korey Jefferson, and Assistant Coach and Athletic Director Dominique Lindsey have quickly established a culture of accountability and relentless effort. The Red Raiders have averaged 50 points and 20 steals per game this season, emerging as a championship contender.

  • The Carver Middle School girls basketball team closed out the regular season with a 10-0 record.
  • The Carver Middle School boys basketball team has a 9-1 record this academic year and a share of first place in the North Division.

The players

Coaches Vappie and Eugene

The 'dream team' leading the Carver Middle School girls basketball program, guiding the team to four straight North District Championships.

Wayne Watkins

Head Coach of the Carver Middle School boys basketball program, providing a disciplined approach and emphasis on fundamentals.

Dominique Lindsey

Assistant Coach and Athletic Director for the Carver Middle School boys basketball program, bringing strategic leadership and a steady presence.

Korey Jefferson

Assistant Coach for the Carver Middle School boys basketball program, adding energy and player development expertise.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We cannot be prouder of their dedication to being student athletes.”

— Coaches Vappie and Eugene (lakeandsumterstyle.com)

“It's been a joy all season long to coach this group of athletic talents. I want to thank their parents and Carver Middle School for allowing me to be the coach.”

— Wayne Watkins, Head Coach (lakeandsumterstyle.com)

What’s next

The Carver Middle School boys and girls basketball teams will continue their pursuit of division and district championships in the upcoming playoffs.

The takeaway

Carver Middle School's basketball program has demonstrated the value of strong coaching, player development, and a focus on more than just wins. By emphasizing accountability, teamwork, and personal growth, the program has become a model for student-athletes in the community.