By Travis Dockery
Digital Media Director
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(Photo by Kelli Graves / Clay County Progress) Kolbe Ashe looks to help propel the Jackets to a state title this season.
Hayesville's star point guard Kolbe Ashe has taken the next step towards furthering his basketball career. On Wednesday, Nov.17, the senior signed to play for Palm Beach Atlantic. Ashe verbally committed to the West Palm Beach school in September, but made it official at the signing.
Ashe was named the Jackets' starting point guard as a freshman, a move that was no surprise to those who had watched him dominate in middle school. His situational understanding and court vision quickly earned the trust of teammates and head coach Mike Cottrell.
In his first three seasons as the floor general for the varsity team, Ashe has helped Hayesville win three straight Smoky Mountain Conference championships. Last season, he and his teammates rode an undefeated streak all the way to a No.1 state ranking.
Every opponent who steps on the court knows Ashe's talents and abilities, which often results in a double-team defense. When that happens, Ashe's unselfishness with the ball allows him to find an open teammate in an effort to help the cause.
With conference championships, No. 1 rankings and player of the year awards, the one thing missing from Ashe's resume is a state championship. Given his competitive spirit and desire to win, it's safe to say Ashe's signing to play at the next level does not mean he is looking beyond his final high school season. In fact, signing before the season started means the senior can be totally focused on the team's mission.
As for his freshman year of college, Ashe will be joining a Sailfish team that is rebuilding. A member of the Sunshine State Conference, Palm Beach Atlantic finished fifth in the conference last year in a season ravaged by COVID 19 protocol issues.
Jacket Nation can see Ashe and the Yellow Jackets start their season tonight in The Hive with a 6 p.m. contest against Blue Ridge Early College.