Tyler Butler
Traveling to Wren High School, we had the exciting opportunity to sit down with basketball standout Abijah Franklin, who has just wrapped up his final year playing for the Wren Hurricanes. As one of the standout athletes in the area, Abijah has captivated fans with his skill and dedication on the court. Now, as he transitions to Furman University to continue his basketball career next season, we were eager to hear about his journey. During our conversation, Abijah reflected on his growth as a player and shared insights on what it was like to play under the mentorship of Coach Campbell, whose leadership has undoubtedly shaped him both on and off the court in our first addition of ” A quick moment.”
Question 1: After playing your final game at Wren, how do you feel about closing out that high school chapter?
“It was sad moment, but at the same time a great feeling. I felt like the entire season and that final game helped me prepare on what’s yet to come. My teammates were sad, but I felt like we had a great year as a team, and all developed in different ways. My freshman year, I went through a lot of adversity and learning how to develop a stronger mindset. I don’t think I was taking everything as serious, but I was young. When I transferred to Legacy and playing against some of the top players like Coen Carr(Michigan State), Elijah Crawford (BYU), Khalil Arnold (Hutchinson) really helped me develop as a better player coming into Wren. Coach Campbell has played such a huge role especially with developing into a leadership role. Before the season coach pulled me in the office and told me how I need to focus on changing my mindset and taking on more of a leadership role. He advised me that was something that would follow me on the next level at Furman if I prepared myself. I think that helped us out in the long run because I was able to take on that leadership role and help my team throughout the season. Also shout out to Adam Filmed It for also helping throughout my high school journey!”
Question 2: What are your expectations as you transition to playing for Furman?
“I’m excited to play for Bob Richey and his staff! They also talked about what type of mindset to have and how to work out during my high school career that would prepare me for the next level. I feel like I made a great decision to play for Furman. We have five freshmen coming in and I feel like it’s going to be a great season for. We’re all get to grow and develop together and help the school get back to the tournament. Not only do I think we can make the tournament, but we will succeed as well. I chose to attend Furman because it really felt like a family there. I watched the team when they would have some adversity, and they would always come together lifting each other up. That to me showed why it would be a great fit because anytime you go through something and stick together is powerful! Togetherness is what makes a team be able to compete with the top teams in the SoCon.”
