Baldwin High School Celebrates Karez Demory’s National Letter of Intent Signing

The Baldwin High School athletic community is proud to celebrate a milestone moment for one of our own. On Wednesday, November 12, senior Karez Demory signed his National Letter of Intent (NLI) to continue his basketball career at Southern University. A historic accomplishment for both Karez and the Braves.

Superintendent Dr. Kristina Brooks shared words of encouragement for Karez Demory and his family.

The signing took place in the James A. Lunsford Gymnasium, where teammates, coaches, teachers, and family members gathered to cheer him on.

Coach Ben Smith, Superintendent Dr. Kristina Brooks, BHS Principal Markeeta Clayton, and BCSD Athletic Director Coach Dexter Ricks all took turns on the mic, professing their appreciation for what promises to be an excellent career. Karez’s family also hosted a reception in the cafeteria immediately afterward, giving the community a chance to congratulate him and share in the excitement of the day.

Karez's teammates cheer him on as he signs to Southern University.

Karez is the first male basketball player in nearly a decade to sign a Division I NLI at Baldwin High. Coach Ricks shared why this signing is so meaningful in today’s landscape of high school athletics. With the recent adoption of the college transfer portal, recruitment has shifted significantly. “Recruitment has changed a lot over the past couple of years because of that portal,” Coach Ricks explained. “If you’re able to get a student to sign coming straight out of high school, that says a lot for both the athlete and the program.”

He went on to note that opportunities in basketball are especially competitive. Unlike football, which offers up to 85 NLI scholarships, college basketball programs have only 15.

That reality makes Karez’s signing even more remarkable.

“Recruitment for basketball has been even more difficult than for football,” Coach Ricks said. “So Karez signing to Southern University is a big deal and a great reflection of Baldwin’s commitment to our students.” Karez’s achievement represents years of dedication, discipline, and the support of a community that believes in him. Baldwin High School could not be prouder of this next step in his journey.

Congratulations, Karez! The entire Baldwin County School District is cheering you on as you take your talents to the Division I stage.