BENTONVILLE, Ark. — In Friday night's win over Fayetteville, Bentonville's junior defensive back, Tristan Brown, applied the pressure.
"I think he had nine tackles, two of those were for loss and recovered a fumble, had a couple pass breakups," said head coach Jody Grant. "He played at a high level and we just hope he continues to develop because he's going to be a really good player for us."
Prior to entering high school, Brown spent most of his playing time at wide receiver. He made the switch to defensive back his 9th grade season.
"I'm real fluent," said Brown. "I like being physical, guarding people."
Brown didn't just step into success this season. He had to knock off the rust in a new position after missing most of 2023 with an injury.
"It wasn't that bad," said Brown. "I had to work more and get it back going. I don't really get nervous. I just can't be comfortable. Got to keep working to keep the starting position."
Now with health no longer a concern, Brown is focused on becoming a leader and bringing home the program's first state title in ten years.
"He just comes to work every day and practices," said Coach Grant. "He's a talented young man and he just leads by practicing hard. That's what we talked to him about. If you're not a vocal guy, just lead with your effort on the practice field."
Bentonville hosts Rogers Friday night at 7 p.m.