Bigger than Basketball: NSM to play Alumni game in memory of beloved teammate

By Dylan Smith, Managing Editor • dylan@southerntorch.com

HIGDON, Ala. — Former student-athletes of North Sand Mountain High School will participate in an alumni game in honor and memory of beloved basketball star, Nick Baker. 

Baker, a 2011 graduate of NSM, passed away last month at the age of 27.

The memorial game will take place Friday, March 20th at 6:00 P.M. CST. The game will be hosted at North Sand Mountain High School, the same court on which Baker left his mark playing the sport he loved. 

Roy Nicholas Baker is survived by three children, his wife, two brothers, parents, and an entire community that cherishes his memory.

The memorial game, Bigger than Basketball, will serve as an opportunity for friends and former teammates to gather and reminisce about the times they shared with Nick.

Organizing the event is Baker’s cousin, Dakota Smith. 

“The reason I felt lead to put on a game like this is because he’s our family, he’s our friend,” said Smith. “It’s something the community needs and it’s always a good way to come together, that’s what’s so good about sports. At the end of the day, it’s just a game, but this is something that’s bigger than basketball.”

Smith noted Baker’s love for the game. 

“Nick lived in the gym, he had one of the best shots you’ve ever seen. He was one of the best players that’s ever played at the school.”

This is truly an example of how a tight-knit community comes together during trying times to celebrate the life of someone who was so beloved by all who were blessed to know him.