Senior guard Zayden Edwards has made history at St. Andrew's by breaking a 25-year-old scoring record. In a 70-49 Georgia Independent Athletic Association 
(GIAA) State quarterfinal win over Tiftarea Academy on February 22, 2025, Zayden scored 25 points, grabbed seven steals, and made six assists. With this performance, he reached 1,655 career points and became the new all-time leading scorer for the Lions.
Coach Mel Abrams, the head coach at St. Andrew's school for the past nine seasons, has watched Zayden's growth over the past four seasons. He explained his observations on Zayden's versatility and consistency.
"Zayden had to play different roles during his four years, so he wasn't just a scorer. I think what is unique about Zayden's situation is that he's been flexible and fluid depending on who is on our roster. He adjusted his role in terms of whether he needed to be the second scorer on the floor or the third or fourth, depending on our personal and to me that's what makes this situation special. He's was not a dominant scoring type of player. I just think he's been consistent with his output," said Abrams.
Abrams noted, "When it comes to what it takes to break the record, Zayden's priority is the team's success. This year, he's stepped up as the main scoring option for the first time. However, it's important to highlight that he has four years of playing under his belt, consistently showing tremendous effort. His dedication to improving himself and supporting his teammates is what truly sets him apart."
Zayden said he never set out to break the record. "I didn't think it was possible until last season when I hit my 1,000-point mark as a junior," he explained. At the school, his Math teacher, Mr. Nick Broom, told him he was close to breaking the record. "Mr. Broom said I was only 20 points away, which made me believe it was possible," Zayden recalled.
He mentioned that the backing from both his former and current teammates played a crucial role in his journey. "The group I played with and play with now has my back. We've built a strong chemistry, and I couldn't have done it without them and all the past players I played with," he said.
Zayden also praised his coach, his teammates, and his family. He explained that his success was not just about scoring points. "I was also working hard on rebounds, assists, and getting steals," he said. His game grew stronger every season, and the points came naturally as he played for his team.
For Mel Abrams, the significance of the program goes beyond individual achievements. He values how the program connects generations of great players. "I appreciate that former St. Andrew's basketball player Ray Rogers (Class of 1992), the first boy's career scoring leader, remains a big supporter of the program, and we stay in touch regularly. Over the last two years, his continuous support has been truly invaluable. As our program has thrived, we've had the chance to reconnect with Evan Aldrich, who held the scoring record for an impressive 25 years. He was on campus last week, and he and Zayden spoke on the phone over the weekend." Abrams stated proudly.
"For me, it is gratifying to see that the success of our program brings together the individual of players across generations. It bridges former players with current players, merging a 25-year history of excellence. Meeting Evan and talking with him periodically over the last year and a half has been heartwarming and a true reward. The program has meant a lot to the St. Andrew's community."
Evan Aldrich, St. Andrew's School Class of 2000, who held the scoring record for 25 years, also shared his thoughts.
In an interview, he remembered the day he set the record. It was a free throw to break St. Andrew's School standout Ray Rogers's career record. Aldrich said that his dad, Steve Aldrich, told him that the record meant much more than just a number. "I remember it like it was yesterday," he said. Evan recalled that his father's advice of hard work, setting goals, and the memories made in the gym were a big part of the record's history. He mentioned that even after the game, his dad's words made him think about how every practice, every hour in the gym, and every game built up to that moment. He expressed his thoughts about the record being broken after a conversation with Zayden, congratulating him.
"I'm proud to see Zayden break the record. He's a great player with a lot of talent. What stands out most is that he's done it with the right mindset. Zayden's a team player and that's what it's all about. He's put the success of the team first, and that's why he's been able to reach such a huge accomplishment," said Aldrich. "It's not just about scoring, it's about winning and he's elevated the program. I'm happy for him and his success. We had a great conversation about breaking the record and how it is a great moment for the school. It shows that hard work and team spirit can make history, and he is a great example of what the program has always been about, team first."
Aldrich also advised young players who dream of breaking long-standing records said, "Set clear goals and work hard every day. Remember, scoring is not just for personal glory. It is about winning for the team and making your school proud." His words remind us that hard work and dedication can lead to outstanding achievements.
Breaking this record is a proud moment for the St. Andrew's community. It shows how commitment, teamwork, and passion for the game can lead to great success even after 25 seasons. As Zayden Edwards continues his journey, the school community looks forward to more great moments for Zayden on and off the court.
PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy St. Andrew's School Instagram pages.
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