Jenkins assistant basketball coach dies in Monday wreck on Talmadge Bridge - Savannah Morning News
Known as “Smitty” to his friends and family, Hampton was an assistant coach for the Jenkins basketball team that won the Class AAA state title last year. He was best friends with Jenkins head coach Bakari Bryant, and the pair played together on the Savannah High squad that won a state crown in 1998 under coach Tim Jordan. “I’ve never met anyone who didn’t like Smitty, everyone loved him,” Jordan said. “He’s one of the few guys who was able to play for a championship team and then go on to coach one. Jordan’s Blue Jacket teams are known for their defense, and Hampton set the tone with his tenacious style as a defensive-minded guard during his time at “The High. Bryant met Hampton during their freshman year at Savannah High, and the two were like brothers ever since. “We met in 1995 and became the best of friends,” Bryant said. That spirit helped Hampton become a great player and coach. “We always said Smitty made defense sexy,” Bryant said. “He knew defense won championships, and he brought that mindset to Jenkins as a coach. He was the coach that got everyone fired up. ”. Details on Hampton’s services will be announced soon. Source: savannahnow.com
