In the 2024 season, Dallas County enjoyed one of its best high school basketball seasons in years.

We are not talking about winning state championships, as none of our seven schools will hoist a gold trophy on the boys’ side.

We are talking about all-star talent. Dallas County produced a pair of outstanding all-state performers: Keith guard Tommy Tisdale III and Morgan Academy forward Milton Hand. 

Tisdale, known as “Trey” by family and friends in Orrville, was selected to play in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star game, something that has eluded the area since 2016. John Pettway, who also played at Keith, was the last selection.

We applaud Keith coach Marcus Turner and Tisdale’s parents, Tommy Tisdale, Jr. and LaTonia Tisdale, for developing a player who is outstanding on and off the court.

Hand had the distinction of playing in the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) All-Star basketball and football games.

We know that Hand’s statistics do not stand out in either sport, but you can not measure his heart and determination. Hand always played hard regardless of the team’s win-loss record.

Morgan Academy football coach Danny Raines, basketball coach Chris Williams and Hand’s parents, Jerome and Susan Hand, all deserve pats on the back for developing Hand’s unique all-around skills. 

We are proud of Tommy Tisdale III and Milton Hand for their All-Star achievements. The future looks bright for them with or without a basketball in their hands.