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THE ZANE REPORT: March Madness – From Brevard County to the National Stage

By  //  March 8, 2025

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ABOVE VIDEO: Astronaut High School’s Jace Carter visited with Space Coast Daily to reflect on the historic 2021 season for War Eagles basketball his senior year. (Video aired in 2021)

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA –  With March Madness just around the corner, college basketball athletes from across the country are stepping into the spotlight. From Division I programs to junior colleges, Space Coast Daily continues to track the progress of local athletes making an impact on the court.

ASTRONAUT HIGH SCHOOL

Kario Oquendo Jr. – After two strong seasons at the University of Georgia, Oquendo transferred to Oregon for one year before making his way to SMU (Southern Methodist University). Now in his senior season, he is averaging 11 points per game and has appeared in all 30 games, earning a starting spot in 10 matchups.

Jace Carter – Carter began his collegiate career at the University of Illinois-Chicago, where he had a standout sophomore season before transferring to Texas A&M. His ability and experience have been crucial for the Aggies as he continues to play significant minutes.

ROCKLEDGE HIGH SCHOOL

Jamar Franklin – Franklin started his college journey at South Alabama, where he averaged just under five points per game as a freshman. He later transferred to Georgia Southern and saw an increase in productivity. Now a junior at Jacksonville State, Franklin is averaging 10 points per contest.

EAU GALLIE HIGH SCHOOL

Ayjay Plain – A key player for Savannah State University, Plain has held a starting guard position for three seasons. Averaging over 10 points per game along with three assists and three rebounds, he has played a pivotal role in the Tigers’ recent back-to-back wins in their conference tournament.

BAYSIDE HIGH SCHOOL

Brody Boyer – After spending two years at Eastern Florida State College, Boyer transferred to Samford University. Unfortunately, injuries have limited his playing time over the past two seasons. However, Samford is enjoying a strong season with a 22-9 record as they gear up for the Southern Conference tournament.

HOLY TRINITY EPISCOPAL ACADEMY

Eric Parnell – Parnell showcased his talent at Eastern Florida State College before transferring to Hofstra University, where he redshirted his sophomore year. This season, he has appeared in 14 games, averaging four points per contest, including a career-high 19-point performance earlier in the year.

Dru Nickson – Committing to Embry-Riddle University out of high school, Nickson played in 18 games as a freshman before suffering a season-ending injury. Since then, he has steadily progressed, emerging as Embry-Riddle’s leading scorer with 16 points per game. On February 22, 2025, he recorded a career-high 43 points against Rollins College.

MELBOURNE HIGH SCHOOL

Nate King – King joined Eastern Florida State College out of high school, redshirting his freshman season. This year, he has made appearances in 15 games with limited playing time. The Titans are preparing for the FCSAA tournament, where they will take on Pensacola.

As the college basketball season reaches its peak, these athletes continue to represent the Space Coast with determination and skill. Keep an eye on them as they chase postseason success!