TIME-OUT: Kelly Ellison’s Rise, Basketball Summer Surge, and Carver Football’s Reload

Kelly Ellison has officially been named the new Athletic Director at Hardaway High School, marking a powerful new chapter in a career defined by excellence, leadership, and an unwavering love for her alma mater. A 2008 graduate of Hardaway, Ellison was a standout point guard who left an indelible mark on the Lady Hawks basketball program. Known for her court vision, relentless defense, and high basketball IQ, she still holds school records in assists and steals and was a catalyst behind the team’s deep state semifinal run.

Following her graduation, Ellison continued her playing career at Stetson and Shorter University. She then transitioned seamlessly into coaching, first gaining experience at the collegiate level before returning to Columbus. She joined the staff at Carver High School as an assistant coach, where she helped lead the Lady Tigers to a state championship appearance. Her attention to detail, tireless work ethic, and passion for player development quickly caught the attention of those around her. In 2017, Ellison came back home to Hardaway, accepting the head coaching position for the girls basketball program. From day one, she brought a clear and purposeful vision: to build a culture of discipline, excellence, and community. Over the next eight seasons, she turned that vision into reality, transforming the Lady Hawks into one of the top programs in the state.

Her year-by-year coaching progression is a testament to her leadership and player development:

2017–18: 11–16
2018–19: 17–12
2019–20: 11–18
2020–21: 11–5
2021–22: 19–8
2022–23: 24–5
2023–24: 27–5
2024–25: 26–6 – Region Champions and GHSA Class 2A State Champions

In 2025, Ellison led Hardaway to its first-ever girls basketball state title, defeating Murray County 47–34 in the championship game. The historic win cemented her legacy and showcased her ability to build not only winners on the court but strong, confident young women off it. Now, as the newly appointed Athletic Director, Ellison is poised to expand her influence even further. Her mission is clear: elevate the entire athletic department, support all student-athletes, and foster a culture that reflects her core values—accountability, effort, discipline, and pride. With her deep roots in the community and unmatched passion for Hardaway, the school’s athletic future is in powerful hands.

The basketball energy in Columbus hasn’t stopped there. The 10th Annual H.O.P.S. Basketball Summer Camp at Carver High School was a massive success. Over 40 kids between the ages of 6–14 participated in a week of development and fun. Led by former Auburn University star Mike Jones, and featuring legendary Coach Richard Mahone, campers were put through skill stations, high-tempo drills, and team-building exercises. The energy in the gym was undeniable, and the growth seen on and off the court was something special.

Just days later, the 29th Street Recreation Center hosted a one-day coed basketball skills training event for ages 7–18. The gym was packed, the kids were engaged, and the feedback was unanimous—no one wanted to leave. The event was a great reminder of the talent and passion this city holds for the game of basketball.

That momentum continues with the return of a Columbus favorite: Midnight Basketball. After years away, Columbus Parks and Recreation officially relaunched the beloved program with the new league, Night Ballers. The season wrapped up last Thursday with a packed gym for the finale. The night started with a thrilling 3-point contest won by sharpshooter Jontavis Miles. That was followed by the highly anticipated championship game between You Already Lost and Money Calling. In a hard-fought contest, You Already Lost emerged victorious behind league MVP and title game standout Zae Horton. Major credit goes to league organizer Curtis Simpson, whose dedication helped breathe life back into this community staple and create a competitive and safe space for young athletes.

While the hardwood is still heating up this summer, gridiron season is right around the corner—and one team already turning heads is the Carver Tigers. The defending GHSA Class 2A State Champions are reloaded and ready under new Head Coach Jarvis Jones, a Carver High legend and former NFL first-round draft pick. Jones takes over a program that’s become a powerhouse, and expectations are sky-high.

Carver finished the 2024–25 season with a 15–1 overall record, including a perfect 7–0 mark in region play. Their dominant playoff run featured blowout victories across the board:

1st Round: Def. Therrell – 55–7
2nd Round: Def. Ringgold – 35–14
Quarterfinals: Def. Pierce County – 44–7
Semifinals: Def. Appling County – 49–6
Championship: Def. Burke County – 52–14

The Tigers averaged over 47 points per game in the playoffs while holding opponents to under 10. That dominance was powered by key playmakers like running back Jakobe Caslin (1,385 rushing yards, 18 total touchdowns), wide receiver KJ Miles (deep threat and reliable hands), and linebacker Tristian Givens (tackle leader and defensive captain). Carver opens their 2025–26 season on August 15th with a road matchup against Whitewater, and all eyes will be on whether the Tigers can repeat as state champions under their new coach.

With strong leadership at schools like Hardaway, community-driven camps, revitalized rec leagues, and championship football programs, the sports scene in Columbus is as exciting and alive as ever. The next chapter promises even more competition, growth, and unforgettable moment, stay locked in.