08 Feb 2023 Bryce Theobald – Searcy (501 Basketball Team 2023)

Missing last year’s Class 5A State Tournament by one game resonated with Searcy senior guard Bryce Theobald all offseason. With one last shot to make the big dance, Theobald and the Lions are all-in on achieving their goals this season.

“Basketball has definitely taught me how to work hard and never give up,” Theobald said. “It’s taught me how to just keep working and be patient, because eventually it’ll pay off if you keep doing the right thing.”

With its eyes on the prize, Searcy isn’t overlooking anyone on its schedule this season and is treating each game as a playoff game.

“Our main goal is to just make the state tournament,” Theobald said. “Last year, we were one game out of it, so that’s been our focus all year. We just all have to play as a team and lock up whoever we play against. If we play how I know we’re capable of, then we will make the state tournament.”

“Bryce is always putting in extra time working on his game,” Searcy head coach Wayne Herren said. “This season, I expect him to be one of our key defensive players and someone we can turn to late in games to take care of the basketball and make free throws.”

As Searcy’s reigning Most Dedicated Player recipient, Theobald hopes to inspire future Lions through his play. 

“When you watch me play, I want to be remembered for how hard I play and for always giving my all,” Theobald said.