Earlier today, shockwaves were sent through the North Carolina basketball landscape following the announcement of George Marshall being named the new Athletic Director and Men’s Head Basketball Coach at The Burlington School. Any hiring was slated to be a surprise since former coach Ryan Bernardi’s sudden departure and immediate move to Prolific Prep was quite unexpected. Regardless, Marshall is taking over the Spartans and looks to maintain their status as a premier program while instilling his own unique culture. In order to better understand Marshall and the situation, we should reflect on the last few years…
For those who are uninformed, Marshall built his name and reputation over the last five seasons at Henderson Collegiate. He’s been the only coach for the NCHSAA 1A program, but arguably no one could’ve foreseen his level of success. In five seasons, Marshall and the Pride held a record of 101-36, made two state championship appearances, and put numerous players into the collegiate ranks. Let’s be clear, Henderson is not considered a basketball hotbed like Charlotte, Raleigh, or Greensboro. Folks should realize everything he’s accomplished in the face of constant adversity and resistance. Earning two title appearances in the first five years of a school’s foundation is absolutely insane.
From afar, it’s really perplexing to see anyone questioning whether Marshall is the right hire. Lest we forget, Bernardi was the head coach at Burlington Christian for just one season prior to accepting the Burlington School position. Having built a program from the ground up, Marshall should be fine at adapting to the new situation. Take a look at some of the top players throughout his tenure: Kalib Matthews, Javonte Waverly, Akhiris Holden, Nick Green, TJ Ragland, Jarrod Small, Micah Lewis, Davon Allen, Kris Franklin, Charles Kiah, and Jashea Hart. While they are talented individuals, Marshall clearly got the most out of his players during his time at Henderson Collegiate.
Between his knowledge of the game and his genuine interest in his players, Marshall should be a perfect fit for this program. His new position as the Director of Team Push has allowed him to build a very competitive roster (along with various relationships) and establish specific connections with each of his players. Upon talking with him for five minutes about Matt Kirby, Jaylan Bowen, or really anyone within the organization, one realizes how much he actually cares about each kid. It’s not fake or superficial. He’s making the sacrifice for the betterment of these young players, and nothing more.
Who truly knows what he’ll be able to accomplish at The Burlington School' He’s the fourth coach since 2013-14, following Ron Johnson (Providence Day), Will Robertson, and Ryan Bernardi (Prolific Prep). Every person who has been at the helm has found success. Johnson has been one of the most popular and successful coaches in the state, Robertson went 24-7 in his lone season but moved away from basketball, and Bernardi’s achievements have been well-documented. Marshall will succeed. Why' Because it’s never been about him; it’s always been about the players. Given his respect to the “players make the coach” ideal, there should be nothing but optimism for Marshall and his vision going forward.