Hilliard’s Hall hits basketball milestone

  • CJ Hall displays his 1,500-point basketball as he is honored Jan. 20. He is joined by his family, from left, Carlton Hall, Carlous Hall, Tasha Hall, and Leonard Smith. The Hilliard Middle-Senior High School athlete is in his final year of playing for the Flashes.
    CJ Hall displays his 1,500-point basketball as he is honored Jan. 20. He is joined by his family, from left, Carlton Hall, Carlous Hall, Tasha Hall, and Leonard Smith. The Hilliard Middle-Senior High School athlete is in his final year of playing for the Flashes.

    Anna Newhoff

    NCR Reporter

     

    CJ Hall achieved a remarkable basketball milestone, scoring 1,500 points during his high school varsity career at Hilliard Middle-Senior High School. 

    “It feels good being a part of that club, ’cause not too many people can score like that,” the 18-year-old said.

    The senior has played basketball for seven years and became a key member of the varsity team five seasons ago. For the 2024-25 season, he is averaging 20 points per game, far exceeding the national average of five points per game. 

    Basketball has taught Hall that it’s important to keep your focus and practice hard to reach your goals. 

    Hall’s most memorable high school basketball moment was playing in the 2024 state championships, where Hilliard finished second in the state.  

    HMSHS Coach Myron Saunders has coached and guided Hall through the years.  

    “He really made me who I am today, because he’s been training me my whole life,” Hall said. “He’s definitely a big part of my life.”

    Hall draws inspiration from several NBA stars as well, including Steph Curry, Russell Westbrook, and Ja Morant. 

    Former running back for the Miami Dolphins and HMSHS graduate Daniel Thomas, also checks in on Hall.

    “He sees how I’m doing and how my exposure is going,” said Hall “He knows, he’s been in that situation when it comes to experiences with (college) coaches.”

    Outside of high school basketball, Hall plays for the Night Rydas within the Amateur Athletic Union basketball team. The team gathers top players from various age groups to compete in tournaments nationwide, providing exposure to college coaches. Hall was part of the team that won the 2024 Peach Jam championship. 

    While basketball remains his primary focus, outside of school Hall enjoys hanging out with his friends and fishing with his dad. 

    After graduating in May, Hall aims to pursue Division 1 college basketball, either by attending a junior college first or committing to a university. 

    Hall advises younger basketball players to “take the opportunities when you have them and sacrifice your time,” in order to reach their goals like he did.