Clinton athlete Bryson Maddox shines on hardwood and gridiron (WBIR)
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Basketball was once a game Bryson Maddox didn’t even want to play.
After quitting the sport in the eighth grade, Maddox nearly closed the book on his hardwood career. But encouragement from those around him brought him back for his ninth-grade year — a decision that would eventually lead to one of the most unforgettable performances in school history.
Recently, Maddox did something no player at his school had ever done before: he scored 57 points in a single game, setting a new benchmark that may stand for years.
“Every time someone asks me about it, it’s like throwing a rock in the water,” Maddox said. “Every time I threw something up, it was going in.”
For those in attendance, the performance felt almost surreal. Shot after shot found the bottom of the net. The crowd grew louder with every bucket. Teammates fed off the energy. Opponents could do little to slow him down.
Maddox himself could hardly believe what was happening.
“I was sitting there like, this is insane,” he said. “This is crazy. This is not real. Having 55 points in a game is unreal.”
He remembered witnessing a similar explosion from Jackson Gardner in the past, but this time, it was Maddox making history.
His 57-point masterpiece wasn’t just a career high — it was a school record.
The hardwood isn’t the only place Maddox has etched his name into the record books.
On the football field, he holds the school record for career receiving yards (2,934) and 33 touchdowns, showcasing his explosive athleticism in more ways than one.
His versatility and work ethic have made him one of the most dynamic athletes in the area — and colleges have taken notice.
Despite the accolades and record-breaking performances, Maddox remains grounded.
“I think the biggest thing is that I was blessed to represent this community and place because I owe them everything,” said Maddox.
His gratitude reflects the journey he’s taken — from quitting basketball as a middle schooler to becoming one of the most decorated athletes in school history.
Maddox has accepted an offer to play football at Middle Tennessee State University. The school has also been in contact about the possibility of playing basketball.
For Maddox, the idea of becoming a two-sport athlete at the collegiate level is more than intriguing — it’s a challenge he would embrace.
“If that opportunity ever arose, then I would love to do it,” Maddox said. “They haven’t, and I told them come see me in the state championship game — because that’s where we are going.”