Sophomore, Forward Carl Cleveland has been selected as the Conference Carolinas Comeback Athlete of the Year Presented by Vernon Graphics & Promotions for the 2023-24 academic year.
QUOTING HEAD COACH JEREMY CURRIER:
"What an honor for Carl to be named the Conference Carolinas Comeback Athlete of the Year. This award represents the long road of dedication and discipline that Carl endured to come back from season ending surgery as one of the most impactful players in the Conference Carolinas and Southeast Region in 2023-24. Carl's drive to excellence in the classroom, in the community, and on the basketball court is among the best I have seen in the last 20 years of coaching."
Currier added, "He makes his teammates, classmates, and coaches better people. I am so proud of Carl and thankful to have him leading our basketball program at Young Harris College."
Following ankle surgery, Cleveland suffered a setback, causing him to miss the entire 2022-23 season. He stayed focused and determined to return to the court, and once he was cleared and able to shoot, he was always in the gym.
Cleveland was rewarded following the 2023-24 season as his hard work paid off with a first team All-Conference Carolinas selection. The Commerce, Georgia native, started all 20 games, averaging 32 minutes per game.
He led the Mountain Lions with averages of 17.7 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Cleveland posted nine double-doubles on the season, including a 33-point, 10-rebound performance against Francis Marion. He also registered nine games with at least 20 points, including the one contest over 30. Cleveland ranked second among Mountain Lions with 61 assists for an average of 2.1 per contest.
The Comeback Athlete of the Year award recognizes a student-athlete who participates in a conference-sponsored sport, suffers a significant injury and comes back to make significant contributions to their team after recovering. The award is presented annually.
The head athletic trainer from each Conference Carolinas member institution submits one nominee each based on the award criteria. The head athletic trainers then select the winner.
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