1,875 fans witnessed history last night.
If you have attended a Samford game this season, you knew a 40 point performance from Jadin Booth was only a matter of time. We thought it might happen 48 hours earlier, but we will take it.
Booth wrapped up his senior season in perfect fashion. The nation’s number one three point shooter per game and a player averaging 21.2 points per game, which ranks 16th nationally, delivered a shooting clinic. He poured in 40 points and knocked down a program record 11 three pointers.
But Jadin Booth is not just the best player in the SoCon. He is one of the best teammates in the country.
Coach Lennie Acuff made that clear after the regular season finale.
“There’s really good players in this league, a lot of really good players. But if he’s not the player of the year, I don’t know what else he’s got to do. He’s been just incredible. And I told the team, as I’ve said to you guys a lot, if you could see what kind of teammate he is every day, he’s encouraging, he sets an example.”
Booth also pointed to the team’s chemistry when asked about carrying momentum into Asheville.
“You know, the saying goes, ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ I think that’s what this group is. Since we got here in the summer, we’re over at Jaxson’s place, he’s baking cookies for us. We’re just hanging out. But like he said, it’s genuine. We actually love each other and enjoy being around one another.”
This team was written off by casual observers early after starting conference play 2 and 5. Those who watched closely knew the record did not reflect the direction this group was heading. They were unselfish, connected, and committed to improving every day.
Because of that mentality, Samford finished by winning nine of its last 11 conference games and now heads into the SoCon Tournament with real momentum.
It will not be easy. But if Jadin Booth and Dylan Faulkner lead the way, followed by the Norris brothers and contributions from Zion Wilburn, Will Shaver, Kam Martin, and Isaiah Campbell Finch, this team has a real chance to make noise in Asheville.
Next up. Samford vs. Furman in the SoCon Tournament.
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