Orlando-area high school coaches reflect on Gator hoopsters playing in Final Four

ORLANDO, Fla. – Some Central Florida high school coaches will cheer on their former players Saturday when Florida plays Auburn in the Final Four.

Sam Alexis, a forward on the Gators, graduated from Apopka High School in 2022.

Scott Williams has been the head coach at Apopka for 11 years and said Alexis stood out for his work ethic and perseverance.

“I’m so proud of him and can’t be more excited to watch on Saturday,” Williams said. “He chose to put in the work that it took to be special, and I’m really, really proud of him.”

Williams said it was unfortunate to see Alexis suffer an injury this year, but he was cheering on his teammates every step of the way.

“I’m really happy for Sam. Proud of him that he stayed the course and his character has revealed itself,” Williams said.

During his senior year, Alexis helped carry the Blue Darters to the playoffs and went head-to-head against his now teammate and roommate, Denzel Aberdeen.

Aberdeen won a state championship at Dr. Phillips High School with his coach, Ben Witherspoon.

“To make it to the Final Four, that’s an awesome experience for him,” Witherspoon said. “He’s a winning player and has been that way his whole life and career.”

Both coaches said they’re proud of their former players and will be rooting for the Florida Gators to win a national championship.