Switzer's Ghost
Six-man observer
You’re certainly entitled to your opinion as to what constitutes recruiting and what doesn’t. But here is the background. 4 years ago, Gordon had this good group of athletes coming up from junior high and were searching for a high quality basketball coach.I agree but that one is a pretty significant one
Shad Reed applied to the job posting. Prior to his applying, Gordon knew nothing of Shad, his background or his family. However, his basketball coaching resume spoke for itself (Nazareth, Martins Mill, Callisburg).
When Shad was hired, Gordon had no idea Ry would turn into what he has become. We just considered ourselves extremely fortunate to find such a quality, experienced basketball coach.
Again you’re entitled to your opinion as to whether that constitutes recruiting. But as far as the rest of the Longhorn varsity team (juniors and seniors), I’ve listed their Gordon alumni lineage below (it was fun to compile!) just to evidence there isn’t some systemic ‘recruiting’ going on in Gordon as the boys are about as homegrown as they come.
Stryker Reed: mom/dad, aunts, uncle, grandparents, great-grandparents
Eric James: (Coach Mike Reed’s nephew) mom, aunts, uncle, grandparents, great-grandparents
Brayden Walters: mom/dad, uncle, grandpa
Evan Jackson: dad, aunts, grandpa, great-grandpa
Noah Kostiha: dad, uncles, grandpa
Asher Salinas: 5th grade (mom hired as teacher)
Kaden Crowe: 3rd grade
Aiden Shank: 4th grade
Rowe Williams: 7th grade. Attended Elementary in Palo Pinto (Palo Pinto is in Gordon’s district but doesn’t have a junior high/high school)
Ry Reed: 9th grade. Dad hired as basketball coach.
Corvin Seymour: dad, aunts/uncles, great-aunts/uncles
Hudson Campbell: mom/dad, aunt/uncle, grandparents, great-grandparents
Tristen Ross: 7th grade. Attended Elementary in Palo Pinto (Palo Pinto is in Gordon’s district but doesn’t have a junior high/high school). Grandpa, great-grandparent.