NATCHEZ — When Nook Logan and Eddie Young started the Miss-Lou Youth Athletics Association they had many goals in mind. But one that stood out to them was getting youth from Natchez recognized on the big stage.

They were able to achieve that goal this past weekend as two MLYAA players competed in the Columbus Shootout, an AAU tournament composed of teams from across the state.

Christian Williams and Izearcatrell “Izzy” Holmes Jr. teamed up with Young’s AAU team, the Mississippi Bobcats out of Jackson a 15U team, and helped guide the team to the championship game.

“They came in right off the bat and gave us a great effort on both ends of the floor,” Young said. “This was their first time to play with kids of a high skill level all over the state.”

The shootout was Holmes’ second with the team and Williams’ first.

“We ended up losing by four points in the championship game,” Young said. “Izzy averaged 13.6 points per game and 8.5 rebounds and Christian averaged 6.2 points per game and 3 steals.”

Young admitted he was surprised by the talent level the two brought, especially because they are still new members of the team.

“I was surprised they meshed so well with the kids,” Young said. “We have kids from Brookhaven, Jackson, Canton and other places.”

After their performances in the tournament, Young said the future is bright for not only his team, but also for Williams and Holmes Jr.

“What we do is build college profiles that will go out to a couple hundred college coaches,” Young said. “There are certain periods in the summer where coaches can come view the kids and if they aren’t going to Natchez, we are going to take kids to get the exposure they deserve.”