​NEW ORLEANS — Carver head coach Nate Roche believes that the Rams’ heartbreaking loss to Eleanor McMain in the 2021 state championship laid the groundwork for one of the most dominant runs in Class 4A. “It was a moment where I saw kids grow up right in front of my eyes,” Roche recalled.
The centerpiece of that transformative group was Solomon Washington, a 6’7” forward whose athleticism and versatility made him a human highlight reel in a Rams uniform. “Very exciting days. I remember the stands being full with people supporting us. There were exciting plays, blocking shots, high-flying dunks—this was an amazing opportunity,” Roche said with fond recollection.
During a Gatorade Player of the Year-caliber season, Washington averaged roughly 15 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals. His production helped the Rams rack up 30 wins and clinch the 2022 state title. “He played a major role in that run. He set the tone in our program. He was always in the gym early, working hard, stressing the importance of finishing plays on defense and making sure we got good looks on offense. He put us in a position to do something really special here at George Washington Carver High School,” Roche explained.
Washington’s impact extended beyond the prep court, as he helped the Rams hang a championship banner before beginning his college career. He spent three years at Texas A&M and one at Maryland. Although he wasn’t the type to score 30 points every night, Washington made his mark through relentless effort and energy that fueled winning. “He’s a selfless guy and a wonderful teammate. He hangs his hat on playing defense, playing hard, and celebrating the guys around him,” Roche noted.
Today, the city of New Orleans honors the former Carver star who, after going undrafted, earned an NBA opportunity with the New Orleans Pelicans. “I think watching him grow up was one of the best parts of being a coach,” Roche added.
The Pelicans’ summer league opener in Las Vegas is set for Thursday at 2:30 p.m. against the Minnesota Timberwolves. “Exciting for a kid right here in our backyard. New Orleans, 9th Ward community. It’s very exciting,” Roche said. Washington will have multiple chances to display his basketball versatility during the Pelicans’ five-game summer showcase.
The full schedule includes:
– Thursday, July 9 — Game 1 vs. Minnesota at 2:30 p.m. (Central) on Prime, at Pavilion
– Saturday, July 11 — Game 2 vs. Charlotte at 3:00 p.m. (Central) on ESPN, at Thomas & Mack
– Sunday, July 12 — Game 3 vs. Phoenix at 2:00 p.m. (Central) on ESPN2, at Pavilion
– Wednesday, July 15 — Game 4 vs. Cleveland at 4:30 p.m. (Central) on Prime, at Pavilion
– July 17–19 — Game 5 against TBA (time and opponent to be announced)
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