LJ Smith leads North Lincoln basketball teams to multiple conference championships

The Lincoln County Schools Board of Education meeting on April 8, 2025, celebrated the remarkable achievements of local student-athletes from North Lincoln High School. The meeting highlighted the accomplishments of both the men's and women's basketball teams, as well as individual players who excelled in their respective sports.

LJ Smith, a sophomore, was recognized as the Catawba Valley Conference Player of the Year after breaking the single-season scoring record for sophomores with an impressive 960 points. Averaging 33.5 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.7 steals per game, Smith is currently ranked as the top combo guard in North Carolina for his class. His academic performance is equally commendable, boasting a GPA over 4.0.

The North Lincoln men's basketball team was celebrated for winning the Western Foothills 3A Conference regular season and tournament championships, achieving a remarkable 22 wins this season, tying the school record for wins for the second consecutive year. Kellen Carr, a standout player, was named the conference Player of the Year for both his junior and senior years and is the all-time leading scorer for North Lincoln High School. He will continue his athletic career at Coastal Carolina University.

The women's basketball team also received accolades, having won the Western Foothills Conference tournament and championship. They scored an impressive 2,080 points throughout the season, averaging 67 points per game, and made it to the Final Four round in Wake Forest. Ali Smith, a sophomore, was recognized for reaching her 1,000th career point and leading the team in steals.

Coach Carr of the women's team was named the Western Foothills Conference Coach of the Year in her first season, leading the team to an undefeated conference record of 14-0 and an overall record of 29-2.

The meeting concluded with congratulations to all the athletes and coaches for their outstanding performances and contributions to their teams and schools. The recognition of these achievements underscores the importance of both academic and athletic excellence within the Lincoln County Schools community.