Makenzie Davis

Malcolm Wilson (left) and Gasparin Ramos Larios (right) wrap English teacher Stacey Smith in Christmas wrapping paper during a game at the winter pep rally in the Al Bahe Gym.

Walking the court on senior night is a common celebration for Fremont High School students. It is a time to be recognized as a lasting team player, regardless of the sport, on top of school commitments. With parents and close family members walking arm in arm, they are applauded for their efforts. For senior Malcolm Wilson, this tribute was made with English teacher Stacey Smith instead.

“They’re always there when I need them. Whenever I need help with a skill or a play, I’ll ask them to go over it with me so that I can get it down. I can ask them for anything I need, both in and out of basketball,” Wilson said.

While having a helping hand and supportive circle on the court has shaped his basketball career, Wilson has received support from his “school mom,” Stacey Smith. Ever since his freshman-year Back-to-School Bash, he and Smith have strengthened their bond as mother and son.

“When school actually started and that’s when things started getting bad, you know, downhill, she brought me back up,” Wilson said. “It’s like I can go to her for anything, like I even cried on her shoulder, she knows when something is up. Having her in my life just means everything to me.”

Much like when a child forgets to buy supplies for a project due the next day and asks a parent to go to the store late at night, Wilson was quick to ask Smith to walk with him on senior night.

“I actually completely forgot about our senior walk,” Wilson said. “So I called my dad, because he was already coming to the game, but I forgot to ask him to come earlier for the walk, so I was like, ‘you know what, I have my school mom.’”

Smith was equally willing to accompany Wilson on such an important night and will continue to be a supportive figure in his life. Having her help influence his life and mindset, Wilson shares words of advice for incoming basketball players learned from Smith.

“Stay committed, don’t give up on what you want,” Wilson said. “Just keep going because there is always something important for you coming up.”