Bethune-Bowman Middle/High Boys Varsity Basketball Team

The Bethune-Bowman Middle/High School Varsity Boys Basketball team is continuing its historic run, advancing to the South Carolina High School League (SCHSL) Lower State tournament for the third year in a row. Under the leadership of head coach Charles McCray III, the Mohawks have built a culture rooted in discipline, accountability, and unity that continues to elevate the program year after year.

Coach McCray credits the team’s success to a clear vision and strong player buy-in, emphasizing that discipline both on and off the court has been the foundation of the program’s consistency. This season’s team rallied around the theme “Spread Love,” a message that helped bring players together, strengthen relationships, and unify the community behind the team.

“At the start of the year, we talked about being the face of our town. When our players came together and truly supported one another, it didn’t just change our team; it brought our community together as well. This group is special because of what they’ve overcome together. They learned to play for each other, trust each other, and believe in something bigger than themselves. That’s what I’ll remember most: they believed in each other, they believed in the vision, and they proved what can happen when a team truly becomes one,” McCray said.

The Mohawks have compiled an impressive record this season, overcoming early challenges including the loss of key seniors from last year’s squad and the need to build chemistry among returning and younger players. Senior leadership played a major role in setting expectations, encouraging teammates to stay focused, and reinforcing the program’s culture. “I’m honored to have a coaching staff that pours into these young men every single day. This isn’t something I do alone. My coaches hold our players accountable, they support them, and they believe in the vision just as much as I do. Their dedication behind the scenes is a big reason why we’ve been able to sustain this level of success,” Coach McCray concluded.

Orangeburg County School District Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster praised the team’s accomplishment and the example they are setting across the district. “This achievement reflects the hard work of these student-athletes, the leadership of Coach McCray, and the support of their school community. We are proud of the way these young men represent Bethune-Bowman and our district, both on the court and in the classroom,” he added.

Bethune-Bowman now turns its attention to its next postseason matchup in the Class 1A Lower State round against Carvers Bay High School, scheduled for Friday, February 27, at 2 p.m. at the Florence Center in Florence, SC. With momentum, strong community support, and a unified locker room, the Mohawks are determined to continue their postseason journey. Coach McCray says this season will be remembered for the way his players embraced the vision and came together as one team.

For additional information, please contact Taylor R. Johnson, Communications and Multi-Media Specialist, at taylor.johnson@ocsdsc.org or 839-253-2070.