Written by Brandon Green

Photo courtesy Mark Emmons Photography

In 1998, Adante’ Holiman’s father, Will Holiman Jr., was an all-state basketball player who put on shows for the fans inside Bob Brumley Gymnasium. In 2021, the apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree.

“To play in the same gym and wear the same jersey as my dad has been pretty cool,” said Adante’, a VYPE Top 100 standout. “I think it’s something every kid wants to do and I have the chance to do that. It’s a blessing.”

Having your dad as your head coach for the same program where he excelled can come with high expectations. However, Adante’ is making his mark on the McAlester basketball program, as well as making a name for himself in the national scene.

With back-to-back years of averaging around 30 points-per-game for the Buffaloes, Holiman has drawn the attention of Division I programs across the country. Multiple schools have offered the junior to play at the next level for them.

“The recruitment process has been great,” said Holiman. “Most people say it’s stressful, but I find it a blessing when coaches call me. It shows that they want me, so I don’t find it stressful in any way.”

He’s even caught the attention of one of his inspirations, NBA All-Star Trae Young, himself an Oklahoma high school star and former standout for the Oklahoma Sooners.  At Young’s Inaugural Elite Camp during the offseason, Holiman faced off with the Atlanta Hawks point guard, earning Young’s praise.

“He said that Adante’ reminds me of me. I love it,” said the Buffs standout. “That made me feel like I can do the things that he’s doing when I get older. The experience against Trae was a dream come true.”

Although he has already come so far, Adante’ hasn’t stopped putting in the work to make his dreams become reality.

 “What drives me is that I want to be the best version of myself,” said Holiman. “I feel like I haven’t played nor become the best athlete I can be.”

In other words, McAlester Buffalo fans need to get their popcorn ready, because “Holi-wood” has some must-see shows coming to a gym near you.