Norris leaving Helix for power Brewster
- Updated: July 29, 2017
NORRIS
2017-18 EAST COUNTY PREP BASKETBALL
By Ramon Scott
EastCountySports.com
LA MESA – Last year, transfer MILES NORRIS and a strong compliment of basketball players at Helix High, thrilled fans in the historic La Mesa gym all winter long.
Norris, who followed his brother’s footsteps to play at Helix after coming in from Mater Dei, led the Highlanders, who rode the “title-wave” all the way to a state championship game.
Despite a few senior defections, Helix was expected to compete again for a run for a CIF title and beyond next season with Norris and some up-and-coming stars, including sophomore prospect MAURICE HOLMES.
Those hopes have suffered a setback following the news late Friday night of Norris’ intention to transfer to Brewster Academy, in New Hampshire, which boasts one of the premier prep school basketball programs in the country.
The statement came from Norris’ basketball trainer.
Extremely proud and excited for @milesbnorris15 and his commitment to Brewster Academy. @BrewsterHoops runs an incredible program.
— Sterling Jones (@SterlingJBall) July 29, 2017
The move by the senior wouldn’t seem to be an indictment of the Helix basketball program under coach JOHN SINGER, which appears as healthy as ever, but more likely, an incredible opportunity for one of the nation’s elite high school players.
Brewster is a perennial participant at the National Prep Championships, having won five national titles since 2010.
Also, the program has won six NEPSAC Class AAA Championships since 2008. Over the past 11 seasons, the program has averaged over 30 victories per year (338-50) and had a winning percentage over .871. Brewster has captured seven regular season NEPSAC Class AAA Championships since 2008. The program has advanced to the National Final Four nine times in the last decade.
Ten Brewster alumni have played in the NBA, while 50+ others have had professional careers in leagues around the world, including the NBA Developmental League.
Previous Brewster student-athletes include Will Barton, Mitch McGary, Thomas Robinson, T.J. Warren, Taurean Thompson, Devonté Graham, Kevin Zabo and Chris McCullough.
Helix isn’t left with a bare cupboard, but the Highlanders can refocus their energy on winning a league title and contending for a section championship.
Joining rising star Holmes are standouts from last year’s historic squad JAYLEN HINSON, CARSON BAKER and JUMAR WYNN.
