Garrett Ballard thrived for Ozark the last two football seasons, first on defense as a cornerback his junior year and then on offense as a wide receiver his senior year. He shined in a sport he never really set self-expectations and in fact nearly walked away from due to his devotion to basketball.
In complete contrast, Ballard felt the burden of his own expectations once his attention turned to hoops this winter. The senior guard endured a disappointing start to this season, compounded by the Tigers' 4-12 record a couple weeks into January.
"He had huge expectations for himself, but the season started off a little rocky for him and he didn't win a starting job out of the gate," coach Mark Schweitzer said. "He had to get over that."
"I had to get out of my way and get out of my own head," Ballard agreed.
Over the past month, Ballard has salvaged his senior season and then some. He's fresh from collecting 11 points and eight rebounds last week against Webb City and scoring 19 points this week at Branson.
The insertion of Ballard and center Cohen George to Ozark's starting lineup has triggered a five-game winning streak for the Tigers.
"Once I got settled in, I've been feeling pretty good," Ballard said. "This winning streak has boosted the team's morale and my confidence, as well. Bringing energy to us at the start of a game and getting us off to a good start, that's become my focus since becoming a starter."
It likely wasn't a coincidence Ballard's upsurge occurred after he finalized his basketball future by committing to Baptist Bible College. He had been talking to Patriots coaches since the pre-season.
"Before, I was having to play to try to get offers," he said. "I know that's not the mindset I should have had. But with it being my senior year and my last opportunity, it probably didn't help me. Having security locked down now that I know I'm going to play somewhere next year, that has helped take some of the pressure off."
Seeing Ballard pick himself up, Schweitzer has gained an appreciation for his resilience.
"We've had multiple conversations and I encouraged him," Schweitzer said. "He could have been, 'Woe is me, I've been waiting for my senior year and coach isn't giving me the opportunity I think I deserve.' He easily could have done that. But he chose not to. Credit to him for picking himself up (and) not quitting on his teammates."
