The Powers brothers from Hickory High School made history on May 11 by winning the 3A state tennis title. Clint and Graham Powers defeated another pair of brothers from Fike High School in Wilson, Collins and Snyder Pearson, to claim the crown. This final match marked the first time in NCHSAA history that two teams of brothers battled for a state doubles title.
Graham, the younger of the Powers brothers, took to tennis first and played in his first tournament at the age of 9. Clint, on the other hand, only got involved in competitive tennis in ninth grade, playing recreationally with the family before that. Despite their different paths to the sport, the brothers found success when paired together in doubles play.
Both brothers credit each other for their success on the court, with Graham leaning on Clint’s experience and Clint relying on Graham to make big plays when it mattered most. Their complementary strengths and strong bond as brothers contributed to their success throughout the season.
While this isn’t the first state title for either brother, they both expressed that winning the doubles title together was a special accomplishment. As Clint graduates and heads to UNC-Chapel Hill in the fall, Graham looks forward to continuing the winning legacy they have established at Hickory High School. Despite their high school tennis career coming to an end, the Powers brothers plan to continue their competitive spirit in other sports like table tennis and pickleball.