Wilson, Stoddart finish on top
Marques Wilson and Harrison Stoddart started their career at Edmond North in 2013-2014 season. From the start of their high school careers Wilson and Stoddart were depended on to play vital roles. Edmond North won just 19 games in Wilson and Stoddart’s freshman and sophomore seasons. The junior and senior years of Wilson and Stoddart were a complete turn around, they only lost 3 total games. The development of Wilson and Stoddart over the past four years has been incredible to watch.
Terry Evans took over as Head Coach of the Edmond North the junior year of Wilson and Stoddart. The coaching change was tough, but Coach Evans taught Wilson and Stoddart a lot.
Wilson signed in the early signing period with Lehigh to make his dream of Division I come true. Oklahoma Baptist was the perfect fit for Stoddart who inked with the Bison in the early signing period.
This season, the two seniors played two very different roles, but both were vital to the success of the Huskies. Wilson was called upon to score the basketball with the rock in his hands. Everyone across the state is well aware of Wilson’s elite scoring talents.
The less glamorous role belonged to Stoddart who did the dirty work in the paint. Instead of complaining about his role, Stoddart stepped up and was the star of his role the season. So many times Stoddart gave the Huskies second chance opportunities with big rebounds. He also played a great role on defense, blocking shots left and right. It seemed opponents underestimated the shooting ability of Stoddart all season long.
On Saturday night, Wilson and Stoddart led Edmond North for one final time on the court. This time it was for all the marbles, winner gets the Gold Ball. As the buzzer sounded, Wilson and Stoddart ran to the student section to celebrate, they were state champions.
“Winning it my senior year was the greatest experience,” said Stoddart. “We had some major problems my first two years, then Terry came in and we really picked it up. Last year, we came up a little short so this year we knew the approach and said we were going to go get it.”
Wilson had a hard time putting the win into words. The moment was clearly moving and special for him.
“I can’t even put it in two words,” said Wilson. “The first two years we struggled, to last year we made it so close and now to win it.”
The two careers of Wilson and Stoddart have come a long way since their freshmen season. Their hard work and dedication paid off on Saturday night with a state championship.
For more information email Matt@prephoopsoklahoma.com