BURGAW, NC - In the world of high school sports, the competitive spirit is strong. But sometimes, the bonds formed between teams go beyond the game. That was certainly the case recently when the Pender High School Varsity Girls Basketball Team took a moment to honor Zyrainna Drayton, a player from South Columbus High School who tragically passed away earlier this month.
Zyrainna, just 18 years old, was a beloved member of the Lady Stallions. When the news of her passing reached Pender High, Coach Michelle McCoy knew she had to do something to show support for the South Columbus team during such a difficult time.
“I felt it was important to show them that we’re all part of one big basketball family,” Coach McCoy said. “We’re competitors on the court, but off the court, we support each other.”
With that in mind, Coach McCoy quickly made a plan. She reached out to a friend who owns a printing company, and within a week, T-shirts bearing the message “Lady Stallions #21strong” were ready to go. The shirts, meant to honor Zyrainna’s legacy, became more than just a gesture for Pender’s players—they were a way for the whole team to show respect to their opponents.
The Pender Lady Patriots paid for their own shirts as a way to honor the South Columbus player. When game day arrived, they gave the shirts to the Lady Stallions as a gesture of respect, offering not just the shirts but also a card and a small gift to show their support.
Coach McCoy, who remembered Zyrainna as a starter in past games, reflected on how important it was for Pender to support the Lady Stallions. “I knew exactly who she was,” Coach McCoy said. "We always had to watch for her shooting three's in the corner. South Columbus has always been a team with great sportsmanship, and I just wanted to show that same kindness in return.”
Before the game, both teams came together for a prayer and a moment of silence at center court in memory of Zyrainna. The gesture, suggested by Pender player Kimora McAliister, was a touching moment of unity. Both teams stood together, putting the game aside for a brief moment to honor a life lost far too soon.
The Lady Stallions were deeply moved by the tribute. In a post shared on social media, they expressed their gratitude: “You’ve shown us the true meaning of community, and we are forever grateful for your thoughtfulness and sportsmanship.”
