High-Powered Backcourt Ready to Lead the Eagles

Columbia Eagles   Class 6A Area 16      Head Coach: Hayden Hatfield   Last Season Record: 4-24 (According to maxpreps.com)   IG: Columbiahshoops   X: @Coach_hatfield   Key Players:   [player_tooltip player_id='2726891' first='Elijah' last='Wilson'] (6'0/ SG/Columbia HS)   Elijah is one of the premier shooters in the Eagles' backcourt and will be a vital piece of the offense this season. His ability to space the floor forces defenses to extend, which opens driving lanes for his teammates. Beyond his scoring, Elijah will also be counted on to provide leadership both on and off the court.   [player_tooltip player_id='2455007' first='Colton' last='Horton'] (6'3/CG/Columbia)   Colton is a true three-level scorer who continues to expand his offensive game. His perimeter shooting has made significant strides, giving Columbia another consistent threat from beyond the arc. His versatility as both a slasher and shooter makes him a tough matchup and a cornerstone of the Eagles' attack.   [player_tooltip player_id='2194861' first='Collin' last='Wilson'] (5'10/PG/Columbia HS)   IG: global_cw   Collin is the definition of a floor general, operating with the poise and IQ of an old-school point guard. With a pass-first mentality, he excels at creating opportunities for teammates while still being capable of scoring when needed. His leadership at the lead guard spot should bring balance and control to Columbia's offense.   Key Role Players to Watch:   [player_tooltip player_id='2748549' first='Dayton' last='Epps'] (G/'28/Columbia HS)   IG: daytonepps28   Dayton made a name for himself with an impressive freshman campaign and will look to build on that success. He is a confident three-level scorer, who brings energy and toughness to the floor while continuing to develop into a primary offensive option.   [player_tooltip player_id='2894567' first='Akeem' last='Gholston'] (G/'27/Columbia HS)   IG: lil_keem223   Akeem is the Eagles' glue guy and a backcourt piece who brings relentless energy and effort on both ends of the floor. His growth this offseason has elevated his offensive game, making him more of a threat to score while maintaining his trademark intensity and defensive grit.   Returning Starters:   [player_tooltip player_id='2455007' first='Colton' last='Horton']   [player_tooltip player_id='2748549' first='Dayton' last='Epps']   [player_tooltip player_id='2726891' first='Elijah' last='Wilson']   [player_tooltip player_id='2894567' first='Akeem' last='Gholston']   New Additions:   [player_tooltip player_id='2194861' first='Collin' last='Wilson'] (Transfer)   Keonte Glass (Transfer)   Josh Reynolds (Transfer)   Jeremiah Reynolds (Transfer)   [player_tooltip player_id='2894484' first='Cordell' last='Mullins'] (JV Player, Will Play Major Varsity Minutes)   What To Expect From The Eagles This Season:   The Eagles will look to push the pace offensively, using depth and versatility to keep defenses on their heels. With multiple players capable of scoring, Columbia has the firepower to put up points in bunches. Defensively, Coach Hatfield plans to mix it up with different presses and zones to disrupt rhythm and generate transition opportunities. After a strong summer and clear improvement across the roster, expectations are high heading into the season.   What Will It Take for The Eagles To Win State?   For Columbia, postseason success will come down to defensive consistency. While this group has the offensive talent to score with anyone, Coach Hatfield emphasizes that championships are won on the defensive end. If the Eagles commit to defending every possession with intensity, they will give themselves a real chance to make a run at the state title.     <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/08/PH-Expo-Oct2025.png"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/08/PH-Expo-Oct2025.png?w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-2952165" /></a></figure>   🏀 Join Us for the #PHTheExpoAL Camp! 🏀   Are you ready to take your game to the next level? We're thrilled to invite you to the #PHTheExpoAL Camp, where you'll have the opportunity to train with top coaches, improve your skills, and play in front of Prep Hoops scouts!   📅 Date: October 5, 2025   📍 Location: Spain Park High School (4700 Jaguar Dr, Birmingham, AL 35242)   What's in store for you?           •        Expert coaching from professional trainers           •        Fun and competitive games           •        Evaluated for the PH rankings           •        Your evaluation in our listing that is sent to college coaches across the country.   Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to elevate your game and be seen by our amazing scouts!   Register Now: <a href="https://events.prephoops.com/e/1610/register/the-expo-alabama">https://events.prephoops.com/e/1610/register/the-expo-alabama</a>   🚨 To receive $10 off your registration Use Special Code: DrakeHoops25   📣For Team Discount: Contact Terry Drake For Pricing   Contact Us: 205.960.9567   We can't wait to see you on the court!

Columbia Eagles