Christopher “C.T.” Taylor, assistant basketball coach and first-year teacher at Callaway High School, has been honored with WAPT’s Alyce Clarke Award for his impact on scholars and the community.

The Jackson native was overcome with emotion as he accepted the award. “This is real? Oh wow, this is amazing,” he said. “It’s a really great feeling to come back and teach the generation behind me, but I also went to school with their moms and dads.”

A proud Provine High alum and former Ole Miss basketball player, Taylor returned home after two decades away, bringing experience in athletics, youth development, and event management, including work at the Rose Bowl Stadium and the Justin Reed Basketball Academy. Inspired by his late best friend and NBA player Justin Reed, Taylor is committed to mentoring the next generation.

At Callaway, he’s already building strong bonds with students. Senior point guard Jonathan Brister shared how Taylor recently ran a final lap on the track with a player, saying, “He pushed him through.” Head Coach Skip Harvey described Taylor’s return as an answered prayer.

Coach Taylor hopes to help lead Callaway to its ninth championship while continuing to inspire young people in his hometown.