01 Feb 2025 Sam Standridge – Clinton (501 Basketball Team 2025)

In order to be the best, you have to beat the best, and Clinton’s strength of schedule has the team battle tested when it matters the most.

Led by junior guard Sam Standridge, the Yellowjackets are putting the pieces together for a deep playoff run one game at a time. 

“This season, my goals are to lead by example and to be the best competitor on the court,” he said. “By playing together, working hard and giving 100 percent in all we do, we can play for a state championship in Hot Springs.”

Standridge contributed greatly for the Yellowjackets as a sophomore, averaging five points and 3.5 rebounds per game. Capable of defending the opponents’ best guards while also providing proficient scoring, he plans to be heavily involved in Clinton’s game plan.

“I expect Sam to have a very productive junior year for us,” Clinton Head Coach Judson Smith said. “Offensively, we will lean on him to provide perimeter scoring and ball handling. I have all the trust in the world that he is ready to fulfill a major role and help lead our team.”

Off the court, Standridge plays football for the Yellowjackets, attends First Baptist Church in Clinton and is involved with Beta Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and FFA. After high school, he plans to play basketball at the next level.

“Sam is a very talented player, but he is a better human being,” Smith said. “He is a strong leader with a phenomenal work ethic. The world needs more Sam Standridges.”