Not playing over the Thanksgiving break, the South Paulding Spartans have only played their first game of the season with first-year head coach Gil Davis.

Winning their first game 71-53 against Rome, Davis said he was pleased with how his team played, but he named Jamal Williams as the standout athlete of the night.

This 6-foot point guard is a senior, starter and captain for South Paulding this season who not only plays well on the court, but leads his team.

“He’s a senior that provides great leadership to go along with his great overall ability,” Davis said.

During the win against Rome, Williams put up 15 points for the Spartans.

Williams transferred to South Paulding from McEachern last year and played strictly on the junior varsity team, but not for a lack of skill.

“Jamal has played for South for two years. This is actually his first year on varsity. He had to sit out last season due to transfer rules,” said Davis.

Only being in his second season with the Spartans, Williams has adjusted well to his team and the team to him.

“He is a player that other players look up to and enjoy being around,” said Davis.

Davis said Williams’ greatest strength is his “overall basketball instincts and his ability to make things happen when a play breaks down”.

As the starting point guard, the one who calls the plays and sets up the offense, Davis sees the value in Williams for the team.