The Legacy of Neyo Bain

Neyo Bain was once a little anxious about leaving his homeland to come to Tallulah Falls School. Like every other obstacle he's faced so far, he took the challenge head on and became one of the best basketball players to ever suit up for TFS.

"I had to overcome some adversity when moving from the Bahamas," says Neyo. "Getting comfortable and having to adjust to a new environment, make new friends, and stay focused on the reason I came here."

That reason - to grow academically and on the basketball court. He did just that, excelling throughout his career.

Neyo became one of just six players in Tallulah Falls history to reach 1,000 career points, eclipsing the mark on a driving layup in the region tournament. He finished with 1,057 points - good for fifth all-time. He also recorded 246 assists (2nd-most), 182 steals (2nd), and corralled over 300 rebounds.

"It means a lot to be among the all-time leaders, because it shows the work I put in paid off," adds Neyo. "But it's bigger than me — it reflects my teammates, coaches, and everyone who helped me get better every day."

For Neyo, he put in the hard work early on, but had to wait for his chance to be a starter in his 2023-24 sophomore season. It was a process to get to that point, and he's quick to guide others on how to seize that opportunity when it's ready.

"As a freshman, I kept working and trusted my coach and the process. I also learned a lot from our senior guard, Anfernee Hanna, by watching how he led the team and approached the game. That helped prepare me for when my opportunity came. I'd tell others to stay patient, keep working, and trust the process because your time will come."

Neyo became that same leader Anfernee Hanna was before him. Neyo, a 3-time All-Region selection and 2-time All-State honoree, helped guide the program to 38 wins over three years as a starter. He averaged nearly 15 points per game over the last two seasons, and had two 30-point games in his career.

He has the 2nd- and 3rd-most assists in a single season, and 3rd- and 4th-most single-season steals. To that end, his nine swipes in a contest is the school single-game record. He's had numerous games and moments to choose from, but what he'll miss the most are the moments there is no crowd.

"I have a lot of great memories, but my favorite is just the practices, jokes, and fun with my teammates throughout my four years. Those moments and the bond we built are what I'll remember the most."

The impact TFS has had on Neyo and vice versa is undeniable. While the basketball program and the school itself parts with a leader when graduation comes around, the world gains another beacon of light. The hard work he put in and dedication will have ripple effects throughout the campus of Tallulah Falls, and Neyo himself, thanks to what he's gained from Tallulah Falls, will be better equipped for what lies ahead.

"TFS helped me grow both on and off the court. The coaches pushed me to compete at a high level, and the school prepared me academically so I'm ready for the next level."

Neyo's next stop takes him to Motlow State Community College, as he signed in mid-April - mirroring the path of his aforementioned mentor Hanna.