Sports Locker • January/February 2025 • Ian Larison

At Russellville High School, junior Ian Larison stands out, not just because of his 6’5” frame but because of his drive to grow as an athlete and person. Ian thrives in fastpaced, high-energy sports, making basketball and cross country his perfect matches. “God blessed me with height, so basketball was a natural fit.” His height certainly gives him an edge, especially in rebounding and shot blocking, but Ian wants to be known for more than just being tall. “I hope people see my desire to work hard to be better for my team.”

Ian didn’t take the traditional route to sports success. Unlike many of his peers who began playing basketball in elementary school, Ian was a latecomer, only picking up the sport in 7th grade. “I wasn’t really motivated to be an athlete when I was younger.” His journey took off thanks to Coach Zac Bryant, who encouraged Ian to push himself and not get discouraged when things were tough. Around the same time, Ian stumbled into a cross-country practice with a friend and found another passion that would challenge him both mentally and physically. “Sports have taught me to push my body to levels I never thought possible.”

Ian also credits his growth to the time he’s spent with the Mid- Mo Phenom basketball team under Coach Marcus Jones. “Coach Jones always says, ‘Embrace the suck.’ That’s stuck with me. It reminds me that growth happens during the tough times.” Ian knows all about tough times, especially his freshman year, when confidence didn’t come easily. “As an athlete, you have to recognize when your mindset isn’t right and work to fix it.” That experience has fueled his desire to be a role model for his younger siblings, Cainan, Brennan, and Ainsley. “I hope I can help them have more confidence than I did and inspire them to work hard. Hopefully they get some of the height my parents gave me! I’m excited to share a court with Cainan this year during his freshman season.”

Ian’s family is a key part of his success. His parents, Andrew and Andrea, have made countless sacrifices to support Ian and his siblings, who all share a love for basketball. Ian’s grandparents, Tim and Roberta Shikles, are equally dedicated, “(They) never miss a game–and grandpa never misses a chance to remind me of what I need to work on!” It’s a household built on faith and love, and Ian embraces the values they’ve instilled in him. “God comes first, family comes second, and the rest is up to interpretation.”

With big goals, like beating their rival Eugene, improving his court vision, and making the most of his time on the team, Ian is focused on giving his community something to cheer for. “The Russellville community always shows up to support us, and I hope we can give them a season to be proud of.” His parents shared, “Ian puts in the work every single day. Rain or shine, hot or cold, you’ll find him outside honing his skills. He’s spent hours working on post moves and teaching himself to dunk… We are proud of him for so many reasons: good student, good athlete, great big brother and son. He marches to the beat of his own drum and is doing things his way with Christ in the forefront. That’s what matters most to us.”

Ian Larison’s story isn’t just about playing hard; it’s about rising above challenges, staying grounded in faith, and lifting those around him. As he works toward his goals this season, Ian proves he’s not just reaching for the rim—he’s aiming to dunk his way into a memorable chapter of Russellville’s athletic history. With his height, heart, and hustle, Ian is sure to be a slam dunk both on and off the court.