Student: Kamron Smith
Year in School: Senior
Plans After High School: Kamron wants to attend Bakersfield College or CSUB to play college basketball and study kinesiology.
GPS Focus: GROWTH
What Makes Kamron #BulldogSTRONG: Last year, the Golden Valley High School Boys Basketball team went on a historic run in which they captured the school’s first ever section title in hoops as they were crowned the CIF Central Section Division III Champions with a convincing win over Atascadero High School. Furthermore, the Bulldogs made it to the CIF State Division IV Semi-Finals before losing to the eventual state champions, Scripps Ranch High School. With the tremendous accomplishments experienced by the Bulldogs last season, the expectations coming into this season were different as GVHS lost a majority of their players due to graduation. Curiosity sank in for GVHS on who would step up and become the general on the floor for the Bulldogs this year and after a few games, it became evident Senior Kamron Smith was that guy. As a junior, Kamron was part of the historic Bulldog run, but his game has really elevated this year as a Senior. As a combo guard/forward for the Bulldogs, Kamron has demonstrated versatility on both the offensive and defensive side of the court. For the year Kamron has averaged 12.4 points per game, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.5 steals to help the Bulldogs to an 11-17 record and 4-2 in the newly formed South Yosemite Horizon League, which allowed GVHS to qualify for the CIF Central Section Division IV playoffs where they earned the #15 seed. Kamron was unanimously selected to the SYHL 1st Team All League because of his stellar play. What really stood out this season was the inspirational play he displayed in the last four games of the season where he averaged 22.5 points and 15.3 rebounds per game with his best performances coming in the critical last two games against West High (24 points, 19 rebounds, 8 steals) and Foothill High School (27 points, 18 rebounds, and 6 steals). For Kamron, his play reflects the PRIDE he has in being a Bulldog. “The best thing about playing basketball at Golden valley is showing people who we are, and helping people understand what good character and commitment really looks like,” humbly comments Kamron, “We walk into a gym and gain our respect by showing our heart and courage to the game.”
Beyond the success on the courts at GVHS, Kamron has been deeply involved in both the Black Student Union (BSU) and Project BEST, two student groups on campus aimed at providing educational opportunities for African American students beyond high school. For his part, Kamron has been able to go to different universities such as UCLA, Fresno State, Bakersfield College, CSUB, and most recently, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He also has been to various events where influential African American community members have given their advice to the next generation on how to be successful. “Being part of BSU and Project BEST has provided me with some memorable experiences that will stay with me for a lifetime,” comments Kamron, “I was able to watch UCLA play Alabama in college football and it was just amazing to be part of such an energetic and fun atmosphere. I have also met some incredible people that have inspired me to reach for my dreams.” Beyond the experiences and the people he has met belonging to these two groups, for Kamron, BSU and Project BEST have instilled in him a new sense of PRIDE. “BSU and Project BEST have shown me that someone like me can get an education and be successful in life,” Kamron humbly comments. For his energy and leadership on the court as part of the Bulldogs Basketball program and in the PRIDE he has in belonging to BSU and Project BEST, Kamron Smith is #BulldogSTRONG.
What #BulldogSTRONG Means to Kamron: "Being #BulldogSTRONG to me means to be respectful and gain your respect, and always think before you do something that might hurt you in the long run.”
What Teachers and Staff Think of Kamron:
“Kam stepped up big this year as one of the few players we had coming back from the previous year. Coach Heard leaned on him hard to carry the team and he came through big time. Though we had some tough times this year, Kam kept a positive attitude which allowed them to return to the playoffs again this year. I can’t wait to see what is next for this young man.” Robert Haskell, Athletic Director, Golden Valley High School
“Kam is a hard worker with a great attitude to match. Kam has grown into a true leader who accepts coaching and constructive criticism. The coaching staff and I are grateful we had a chance to watch him grow on and off the basketball floor.” Jayson Heard, Head Basketball Coach, Golden Valley High School
“Kamron is an all-around great student to be around. I had the pleasure of having Kam in my US History class last year and he is my TA now. He was always diligent about getting his assignments turned in on time, is willing to participate, and is a great help to me as a TA. Kamron is also a really funny kid and he carries himself in a humble manner. So much so that you probably wouldn’t tell that he is a star basketball player but he is THAT GUY on the court!” William Cross, Head Track and Field Coach and US History Teacher, Golden Valley High School
“Kamron is a great kid. He is always ready to work. He is very respectful to me and his fellow students. He always does a great job on his projects. Whenever I ask him to do something he is ready to start doing it. Kamron is #BulldogSTRONG” John Haskell, Wood Shop Teacher, Golden Valley High School
“Last year, I had the opportunity to coach Kamron in cross country. He demonstrated pride and growth when representing Golden Valley. In the treacherous mountains of Tehachapi, the toughest league race, he finished in 1st place. At the Roughrider Invitational where over seventy schools participated, he had a medal place finish. He confessed that it was the most physically challenging competition of his life. This was Kamron's first year participating in XC; he showed true grit and determination.” Manuel Sanchez, Librarian, Golden Valley High School