Senators honor Montgomery Academy 3A state champion basketball team on Senate floor

Senator Barfoot introduced a joint resolution on the Senate floor commending the Montgomery Academy boys basketball team for winning the 2026 Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 3A state championship, and senators adopted the resolution by voice vote.

The resolution, read at length by the Senate secretary, recorded the Eagles’ 66–39 victory over the Southside Selma Panthers at the BJCC Legacy Arena on March 6, 2026, named Braden Gordon the tournament MVP and listed several players, coaches and assistant coaches by name. Senator Barfoot told the chamber that the players represent “future leaders of tomorrow” and urged them to build on their success in school and civic life.

Coach (the team’s coach, who spoke on the floor) thanked the Senate for the recognition and focused his remarks on the players’ “unwavering commitment to each other, selflessness and team,” saying those traits will serve them beyond the court. John W. Williams, identified on the floor as head of schools, praised the team’s leadership, community service and commitment to classroom achievement.

Senators including Smitherman and Barfoot highlighted the team’s academic standards and community service in brief remarks. The resolution was adopted, the players and coaches posed for photos on the floor, and senators gave the group a standing ovation before the Senate proceeded with its calendar.

The resolution does not create a programmatic commitment or financial appropriation; it is an official expression of the legislature’s congratulations. The Senate then resumed its legislative business and advanced the day’s calendar.