By Thomas Sellers jr.
MURFREESBORO – Since the mid 2000s, Millington Central High School athletics has featured a Brandon. The children of LaCanas and Ricky Brandon have found success in soccer, track, basketball and volleyball. It all started with big sister Charrii, a three-sport standout. Tamarah was next reaching State in basketball and being a feature part of track. Ricky Jr. was a standout in track as well. Then it was time for the baby of the family Devynn to write his own chapters in “Brandon Family Legacy.” The senior authored his final page Friday afternoon in Murfreesboro participating in the Class 3A State High Jump finals at MTSU Stadium. Devynn finished in the top 10 clearing 5’10. Brandon hit the 6’4 mark the previous week at the Houston High School during Sectionals. “I just felt like if I did me, I would prove myself,” Devynn said. “‘Yeah he’s somebody. He’s not just another Ricky, or another Charrii or another Tamarah. He’s making a name for himself.’ I felt I made a name for myself coming out of Millington.” The youngest Brandon became a starter for Rob Sabau’s Trojan Basketball team this past season and earned a spot at the State Track Meet. “I feel like I did my thing knowing that this is my first year in track and I made it to State,” he said. “It’s a great accomplishment because a lot of people don’t have the opportunity to do this.” Patience helped Brandon in track and also on the hardwood. His junior year he took advantage of reps with the JV and watching the Class of 2013. “Knowing the year before we had a lot of talent,” he recalled. “It was stacked with El Paso, Kelby, Telvin, all 10 of them. Watching them and learning from there mistakes, I had a chance to come up as a senior and improve myself. I worked on my weakness and build on my strengths.” Brandon shined once he got his chance to play on the court. And he used his natural ability and impression from his older sibling to achieve success in the high jump. Devynn said he was proud to follow in the footsteps of his sisters and brother, but he hopes people will remember the final Brandon did it his way. “I am passionate about what I do,” he said. “I want to make myself known for what I do and who I am.” As for the book on the Brandons, Devynn said the achievements read for themselves.
“They left a legacy at Millington,” he concluded. “People will be like, ‘Millington? Oh the Brandons went there. And they did their thing. They showed out.’”
