GAMES
RANKINGS
BJ LaFell's much-anticipated launch in high school sports is nearing
LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON: Is BJ LaFell the future of H-Town high school athletics?
The Nolan Ryan Junior High student is a rising star in football, basketball, and track & field, and he’s already earned his first college football offer.
Does the name sound familiar?
Back in 2004, Brandon “JoJo” LaFell starred at Lamar High School in HISD, excelling in—yes—football, basketball, and track. BJ’s father went on to play football at LSU, where he earned first-team All-SEC honors and won a BCS National Championship with the Tigers. A third-round draft pick by the Carolina Panthers, Brandon LaFell played nine seasons in the NFL and won a Super Bowl with the New England Patriots, famously catching the game-winning touchdown against the Ravens.
“I remember being on the field after the Super Bowl, playing in all the confetti,” BJ laughed. “I still look back at that video that went viral of me sitting on my dad’s lap, playing with the microphone in the press conference room after the game.”
Fast forward a decade, and now it’s BJ LaFell who’s on the verge of becoming the next big thing in Houston sports.
“My dad is super involved and plays a major role in my success,” he said. “He’s already done all of this. He’s seen everything. He’s been through the recruiting process. He’s able to tell me step-by-step how to handle situations, and that’s huge to lean on.”
"His athleticism is what really reminds me of me," Dad said. "You see him on the field or the court and your thinking, this kid is dog, but off the court he is very quiet and reserve. He reminds me of former Texan Andre Johnson... the are the nicest people but when they flip that switch, it's flipped.
"He has such a competitive nature and wants to dominate and master everything he does. He has an edge to him that sets him apart. His leadership skills are also unmatched."
BJ plans to enroll at Shadow Creek High School, where he has big goals. His future football coach, Tyrone Green, was on staff at Lamar when his father played for the Redskins (now the Texans).
“My goals are to win a football, basketball, and track state championship, graduate, and earn a Division I scholarship,” he said. “I think I’ll stay with my class in football, but I feel like I can be on varsity in basketball and track. We’ll see.”
LaFell has dominated the junior high level and shines on the 7-on-7 football and AAU basketball circuits.
“Football helps me in basketball by making me more physical, especially finishing at the rim against bigger, stronger guys,” he said. “Basketball helps me in football with change of direction, endurance, and speed.”
On the football field, LaFell plays with the poise of someone well beyond his years.
“I love playing quarterback because I’m a really positive guy, take accountability, and am very coachable,” he said. “That’s just my personality.
“These spring 7-on-7 tournaments helped me get ready for high school—just the reps, learning to read defenses pre-snap, and throwing guys open. There’s so much to learn about reading coverages.”
With all that’s on his plate at such a young age, how does this soon-to-be ninth grader unwind?
“I like watching film on some of my favorites—Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, Justin Jefferson, Ja’Marr Chase, Tank Dell, and Jahmyr Gibbs,” he said. “I’m always going to take any opportunity to train, hang out with my friends, play 2K and Madden, watch movies, and go roller skating. I’m pretty good at skating.
“I’m just a regular teenager...”
Ehh, not really.
Angleton's Lily Calderon
THE PLAYMAKERS: Loading the Artillery, powered by UTMB Health
Here are the UTMB Athletes of the Week, as we enter the thick of District-play and beyond this Spring.
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Walker Hurst -- Pearland Baseball
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Pearland remains a powerhouse in District 22-6A, boasting a solid 17-6 record (9-2 in district) as they sit comfortably in second place.
While senior shortstop and Texas A&M-commit Nico Partida has earned much of the attention, the Oilers’ success is far from a one-man show. Senior outfielder Walker Hurst has emerged as a key contributor, consistently delivering with both bat and glove.
An All-Tournament selection at last year’s State competition, Hurst continues to shine in his final season with Pearland. With a .254 batting average, 12 RBIs, 2 home runs, and 16 runs scored, he has been one of the team’s most dynamic offensive players.
His ability to deliver clutch hits and provide a steady presence in the lineup has been crucial to Pearland’s continued success.
As the Oilers pursue another deep playoff run, Hurst’s performance could be pivotal in their quest to return to the State Tournament. Pearland’s combination of experienced leadership and emerging talent like Hurst makes them a team to watch as the season progresses.
Lily Calderon -- Angleton Softball
Doug Brown (VYPE)
Angleton has already established itself as one of Texas' premier softball teams, currently ranked No. 25 by MaxPreps with a 12-2 record heading into the second half of the season.
Under the leadership of Coach Cindy Rubio, the Wildcats are on track to secure their third district championship in four years—and senior first baseman/outfielder Lily Calderon has been the driving force behind their impressive run.
Calderon is putting together a standout season, hitting an impressive .429 at the plate while leading the team with 18 RBIs, 2 home runs, and 9 runs scored. Her offensive production has been vital to the Wildcats’ success, and she continues to be a key contributor in both clutch situations and everyday play.
While she remains uncommitted, Calderon’s performance on the field is certainly catching the attention of collegiate scouts. More than just her individual achievements, Calderon is determined to help Angleton overcome past playoff setbacks and make a deep postseason run this year.
With her leadership and powerful bat, Calderon is poised to help the Wildcats achieve even greater success as they chase another district title and look toward the playoffs.
Chris Lopez -- Dobie Boys Track & Field
Dobie’s Chris Lopez had an exceptional performance at the District 22-6A Track Meet throughout this past week, securing two gold medals in impressive fashion.
Lopez took first place in the 1600-meter race with a remarkable time of 4:36.53, and followed it up with another victory in the 3200-meter event, finishing with a time of 9:51.39. His dominance in both long-distance races highlights his stamina and determination as he continues to lead the charge for Dobie’s track and field team.
With these victories, Lopez is now gearing up for the Area Meet, scheduled for next Friday at Hall Stadium in Missouri City, TX.
Given his outstanding performance at the District meet, expectations are sky-high for the senior as he heads into the next stage of competition. Lopez’s focus and determination make him a strong contender for even more success as the postseason progresses.
Karsyn Carrier -- Manvel Softball
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
Despite navigating a tough District 22-6A, the Mavericks have remained competitive, with a solid 11-9 record and a three-way tie for fourth place alongside Dawson and Shadow Creek.
A key reason for their success this season is the stellar play of sophomore outfielder Karsyn Carrier, whose standout performance has been instrumental in keeping Manvel in playoff contention.
Carrier has been a dominant force at the plate, currently batting .439 and leading the team with 24 RBIs and 4 home runs. Her offensive production has provided a significant spark for Manvel, and she continues to be a key contributor in their pursuit of a postseason berth.
Alongside fellow standouts like Kaylah Hopkins, Skylar Frederick, Jaylie Miller, and Chloe Ramirez, Carrier has helped the Mavericks remain firmly in the playoff conversation as the season progresses.
With more contributions from this talented group, Manvel should remain in the hunt as they look to secure a spot in the playoffs by the end of April.
McKenzi Roberson -- Shadow Creek Girls Track & Field
With the departure of last year’s standout Mackenzie Collins (University of Texas) —who earned multiple medals at the UIL State Meet—Shadow Creek High School's track program has a new face.
Sophomore McKenzi Roberson has quickly established herself as a dominant force, signaling a bright future for the Lady Sharks.
Roberson made an immediate impact at the District 22-6A Meet this week, capturing gold in both the 100-meter dash (12.05 seconds) and 200-meter dash (24.33 seconds). Her victories not only showcase her individual talent but also hint at the potential for even greater achievements as the season progresses.
While Collins’ legacy looms large with her success in the 300m hurdles and relays at the state level, Roberson is already proving she has the speed and determination to carve out her own path. As a sophomore, her rise to the top is only just beginning.
With such an impressive performance early in the season, Roberson is poised to make a splash at the UIL State Meet in Austin in the coming weeks. The future is bright for Shadow Creek’s track and field program, and McKenzi Roberson is leading the way.