In the  hallways of Shadow Ridge High School, a new face is making waves on the basketball court. Tavious Boone Jr., better known as TJ, is a sophomore transfer student from Durango High School, who has big dreams and even bigger determination. After relocating to the area, Boone has set his primary goal: earning a spot on the boys’ junior varsity basketball team and playing in his first official high school game.

Boone’s journey into high school basketball is one of fresh starts and perseverance. Having never played competitively at the high school level before, he views this as his golden opportunity.

“I’ve always loved the game, but moving schools gave me a chance to reset and go all in,” Boone shared during a recent practice break. 

Since his arrival at the school just a few months ago, he’s been a fixture at every team practice, showing up early and staying late to hone his skills.

Coaches have taken notice of Boone’s work ethic. Assistant Coach Blake  praised his dedication, “Boone came in with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. He’s not just here to fill a spot he’s earning his place through hard work.” 

This commitment has helped Boone’s build trust among the coaching staff, who appreciate his consistency and team-first mentality.

Beyond the court, Boone’s has quickly integrated into the school community. In a short time, he’s formed strong friendships with several teammates, turning what could have been a challenging transition into a supportive network.

”The guys here are awesome,” Boone said. “We’ve got each other’s backs, whether it’s during drills or just hanging out after practice.“

These bonds have not only boosted his confidence but also strengthened the overall team dynamic as they prepare for the upcoming season.

As tryouts approach, Boone remains focused on his ultimate aim: suiting up for his debut JV game. With practices ramping up, he’s working on everything from footwork to free throws, all while balancing his sophomore coursework. For Boone, this isn’t just about basketball, it’s about proving to himself that new beginnings can lead to exciting achievements.

The JV boys’ basketball team kicks off its season in December, and if Boone’s trajectory continues, fans might just see a new star in the making.  TJ Boone Jr. is ready to shine and show everybody who he is.