Northeast Fl- The Andrew Jackson Tigers delivered one of the most remarkable regular seasons in recent Northeast Florida high school basketball history, finishing the year with an approximate 25-1 record and a roster full of swagger, depth, and clutch production. Under the guidance of their experienced coaching staff led by head coach Byron Shemwell, the Tigers blended veteran leadership with emerging youthful talent to become a regional powerhouse.
From the first tip, Jackson established itself as a program built on balanced scoring and stingy defense. Senior Langston Hackworth (6’8, 230lbs) led the charge offensively, averaging nearly 15 points per game, while also contributing 6.3 rebounds and providing a stabilizing presence in late-game situations. Hackworth’s assertiveness in the paint and on the perimeter made him a matchup problem that opponents struggled to slow down all season.
Complementing Hackworth was seniors Javion Davis and King Sanders, who consistently pressured defenses and stretched the floor. Davis, a skilled playmaker, averaged roughly 14.8 points and 4.5 rebounds, regularly initiating the offense and finding open shooters. Sanders was equally as impressive averaging 12.0 points per game.
Highlights from Andrew Jackson vs leon
— Javion Davis (@Jv_Daviss) January 5, 2026
21pts 3 assist 3 reb 1 blk 1 steal@ByronOtod pic.twitter.com/lh4xYpopRJ
Sanders, one of the region’s most efficient marksmen, shot over 44% from three-point range, punishing teams that sagged off him in help rotations. Their combined offensive versatility allowed Jackson to adapt to different styles of opponents throughout the season.
Key victories abounded for Jackson, highlighting their ascent. Early in the year they dispatched Fleming Island and Ponte Vedra, and later in the season picked up signature wins over regional rivals Godby, and Leon. A defining moment came in a gritty 72-68 win against MaxPreps top ranked Providence, where Jackson’s poise under pressure epitomized their season-long identity. They defeated The Rock National team in an overtime thriller, 79-76. That stretch of quality wins propelled them to the top of local polls and earned respect across classifications.
Here is my offensive highlights from this year so far. #truepointgaurd #TeamSuccess @ByronOtod pic.twitter.com/odpK2A6c2R
— Michael Underwood (@Top1shiftyy) January 13, 2026
The Tigers’ defensive unit was equally sound, frequently holding opponents below 60 points and forcing contested shots in critical stretches. Corenzes Dennard, Michael Underwood Jr, and Terrell Mosely II, all averaged multiple steals a game. Jackson’s ability to convert defense into transition offense was a key reason their point totals remained high even against tough competition.
As the postseason approaches, the Tigers enter as one of the #1 seed and favorites not only in Northeast Florida, but across Class 3A. They begin with #8 seed Marianna February, 14th at home. Their blend of talent, team chemistry, and sustained excellence make the 2025-26 Andrew Jackson Tigers one of the most explosive squads in recent local hoops history — a team defined by collective effort, clutch performances, and a commitment to winning on every possession.
Highlights from Jackson vs a very tough Leon team
— Corenzes Dennard (@CorenzesD) January 6, 2026
19pts, 7reb, 1ast, 2stl
7/7 ft@ByronOtod pic.twitter.com/e1Efv9LS76
Brining home the championship this year is their number one goal, after their 28-3, 2024 season that ended with a 57-55 loss in the State Final 4. They took home the Gateway Conference Championship. They took home the District championship for the third consecutive time, defeating Episcopal 57-49. Now the eye of the Tiger is on a State Championship.
2025 FHSAA Boys Basketball State Tournament 3A
