Zander Carter Leaves Blazer as Champion of Game and Character

Zander Carter Leaves Blazer as Champion of Game and Character

Deidra Bowling-Meade

The Ashland Beacon

As the final buzzer sounds on his senior year at Paul Blazer High School, Zander Carter leaves behind more than a list of stats or accolades—he leaves behind a legacy. The all-time scoring leader in school history, Zander is not only known for his ability to dominate a game but for the values that drive every move he makes on and off the court: faith, humility, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Born to Steve and Heather Carter, Zander's journey began with a toy basketball hoop at just two years old. Since then, the game has been more than a sport—it’s been a source of peace, purpose, and personal ministry. Zander shared, “Basketball has always been my escape from the chaos of life. It’s also how I try to lead others to Christ.”

Zander plans to attend Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he’ll major in Sports Management. He dreams of playing in the NBA—specifically for the Phoenix Suns, inspired by his favorite player, Devin Booker, who shares not just Zander’s height but also a Kentucky connection. “Booker’s always been someone I modeled my game after,” Zander explained.

Zander’s accomplishments aren’t limited to the court. A four-year member of FCCLA, he earned two culinary certifications. Mrs. Coleman, who is one of Zander’s favorite teachers at Blazer, commented, “I have watched Zander grow, compete, and lead both on and off the court. He is not only an exceptional athlete but also an outstanding individual who leads by example.  He is a dedicated student, balancing a challenging academic workload while still putting in countless hours in the gym. He gives back to the community - whether it's mentoring younger athletes, volunteering, or simply being the kind of person others look up to. His character speaks for itself in the way he treats people.”

Blending creativity with community pride, Zander also developed a clothing line through River City Printing. The line carries the design created by Zander and is available in both Ashland and Liberty colors. Fans and supporters can visit the website: zandercarterbrand.itemorder.com for all the latest attire.

At the heart of it all is Zander’s faith—a foundation he leans on daily. His favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 16:9, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” It has guided Zander through highs and heartbreaks, including the devastating loss of a best friend last summer. Zander reflected, “That night taught me to see both the good and the bad in people and to be grateful for every moment.”

That faith grew even more visible during his sophomore year, when Zander began preaching and reading his Bible before games. His senior year, he started bringing his Bible to the bench during games—an act of obedience and identity. Zander remarked, “I always read it before games, but God put it on my heart to bring it with me every time. The Bible is where I find who I am.” His example has inspired others, including one young fan whose parent shared that he now brings his Bible to games too.

Zander’s leadership hasn’t gone unnoticed. Coach Troy Thomas, a veteran of over three decades, described Zander as “the humblest kid I’ve ever coached” and called him a "thermostat" leader—someone who sets the tone rather than just following it. “When your best player is also your hardest worker, special things happen,” said Thomas. “He never cuts corners. He guards the opponent’s best player. He celebrates others’ success. He’s not a ‘me’ guy—he’s a foxhole guy. You want him beside you in battle.”

When it comes to standout basketball moments, it’s hard to choose just one. Maybe it’s his 29-point performance against UK commit Malichi Moreno in the opening game of the season, or the unforgettable dunk in the 16th Regional Finals that sealed the win and sent Johnson Arena into a frenzy. Or perhaps it’s the quieter moments—like praying for an injured opponent mid-game—that tell you more about who Zander Carter really is.

Coach Ryan Bonner, who has worked with Zander since 2020, called him “faithful, committed, and driven.” He added, “Zander led our team in nearly every statistical category, but more importantly, he led with integrity. He’s the most well-rounded player I’ve ever coached, and his joy for life is contagious.” Even in the locker room, Zander’s leadership never wavers. From making jokes to encouraging teammates in tough times, he brings unity and light.

Off the court, one of Zander’s greatest sources of strength is his relationship with his older brother, Zane. Though Zane lives across the country and is three years his senior, the two remain in constant contact. Zander speaks with him daily, leaning on him as both a role model and confidant. Their unbreakable bond reflects the loyalty and heart that define Zander’s character—quiet strength rooted in deep connection.

When asked what wisdom he’d offer to underclassmen, Zander didn’t hesitate. “Be yourself. Deny yourself and follow God. I know what freedom I have in the Lord, and I’m not worried about someone else’s judgment.” It’s a mindset he carries into every day, reinforced by the words written on his mirror: Immovable Faith. From morning routines to moments under pressure, his belief never wavers. “Worship is a weapon,” he stated. “Failure isn’t missing failure is not trying.”

Zander concluded with a heartfelt request: “Just pray for me, and I will do the same for you.”

As he heads to Liberty University, the community of Ashland Paul Blazer High School sends him off with pride, prayers, and unshakable admiration. “Ashland won’t be the same without him,” Coach Thomas said. “There will never be another Zander Carter.”

Coach Bonner responded, “I personally would like to thank Zander for the way he has represented our school and program in his time at Ashland.  He has left a long-lasting impact and has set the standard for what it means to be a student athlete at Blazer High School. Our family cannot wait to see you excel at the college level! Good luck Z!”

From small-town courts to national dreams, Zander Carter is a light in the world—shining not just because of his skills, but because of the spirit behind them.

Congratulations, Zander. Keep leading. Keep believing. The best is yet to come.