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SM’s Tyson Crawford signs to play basketball for Montreat
Smoky Mountain basketball standout Tyson Crawford has signed to play for Montreat.
“I liked the atmosphere,” Crawford said of his decision. “All the students went out of their way to speak when I went to visit. I really liked Coach (Bill) Robinson. We got along really well. He reminds me of (former Smoky Mountain) Coach (Scott) Hartbarger. The players acted like they had known me for a long time.”
Signing to play basketball in college is something Crawford has dreamed about for years.
Smoky Mountain basketball standout Tyson Crawford (front, center) has signed to play for Montreat. Also pictured are, from left: (front) Montreat Coach Bill Robinson, Tyson’s parents, Johnny and Robyn Crawford, and his brother, Dylan Crawford; (back) his coach at Smoky Mountain, Scott Hartbarger, and team manager Chris Shular. – Herald photo by Derek Hodges
“I’ve wanted to do this since I was a little kid and first picked up a basketball,” he said. “I knew it could happen, but it was a long process. I hadn’t been contacted by anybody except Lenoir-Rhyne then all of a sudden Montreat popped up about the time basketball season ended. This feels awesome. I’m really excited. I can’t wait to be at Montreat and start playing basketball again.”
A three-year starter, Crawford averaged 14.5 points and 4.5 rebounds for the Mustangs last season.
“I’ve enjoyed my four years here, but I think I’m ready for the next level,” Crawford said.
He expects to begin his career playing for the Montreat JVs before moving up to the varsity.
I’m very comfortable inside playing the four position, but I also like going outside to shoot the ball,” he said.
Crawford may have the opportunity to do both at Montreat.
“We’re excited about Tyson,” Montreat Coach Bill Robinson said. “As athletic as he is, we feel his best basketball is ahead of him. We’re looking forward to seeing him develop over the next four years. He’s always played a post position in high school. We’ll be working with him inside and on the perimeter in the fall.”
“I’m very proud of Tyson,” Hartbarger said. “From day one he had set the goal of playing on the next level. He worked hard and made the commitment. He was always at summer workouts and went to camp with us. I look forward to watching him continue his career.”
Crawford expressed thanks to Hartbarger for believing in him and helping him get this opportunity. He also thanked team manager Chris Shular for what he has done for all Smoky Mountain athletes.
Crawford is the son of Johnny and Robyn Crawford of Sylva.
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