BLOOMINGDALE, Ga. – The much-anticipated return of Savannah’s own Bakari Bryant to the high school basketball scene hasn’t unfolded as a fairy tale just yet.

Bryant, now leading the New Hampstead Phoenix, came back after a successful period coaching at Dougherty High School in Albany, Georgia.

The Phoenix currently hold a 6-11 record this season. However, there are signs of improvement for Bryant’s team. In a thrilling overtime match, they secured a 53-50 victory against Benedictine, marking their first regional win of the year.

Head Coach Bakari Bryant attributes this success to the players’ growing commitment. With the playoffs approaching, Bryant remains optimistic about the team’s potential.

“In high school sports,” Bryant remarked, “it’s not about how you start, but how you finish. As the region tournament and playoffs near, that’s when you want to hit your stride. We just keep pushing and coaching. Hopefully, we can make it to the playoffs, catch that momentum, and go on a winning streak.”

New Hampstead will look to pick up its second region win on Friday as they travel to Warner Robins.