Luella’s JaVon Bowser rose to the occasion in last week’s upset win over Carver-Atlanta. With his team down late in the 4th quarter, Luella turned to their dynamic junior receiver to make a play, and he did not disappoint. 

The Lions were lined up at the 35-yard line; Bowser off to the right sideline in the slot, where the Carver defense aimed to contain him. The junior released intensely upfield immediately blowing by the initial defensive back in zone coverage, who quickly abandoned his assignment in pursuit of Bowser’s deep route. The ball was released quickly, meanwhile, another defensive back met Bowser in stride on the sideline while an additional deep safety rotated over. Now with three defensive backs in his vicinity, Bowser rotated his shoulders over and high-pointed the football, catching through contact before falling into the endzone.

The touchdown pulled Luella ahead 18-13, and Bowser’s touchdown catch was the game’s deciding factor. A few nights later, the junior receiver was named to the top 10 plays of the week and was ultimately voted 2nd place for play of the week.

Bowser talked about how the season has gone so far.

“My junior year is going great! Just trying to step up my game and perform on the field the best way I can,” he exclaimed.

What a difference a few seasons can make. Two years ago, Luella lost 9 games and looked utterly lost on the field while Carver won 9 games and was commonly ranked among the top teams in 3A.

Changing the culture for those underclassmen from 2022 was no easy task, but that positive outlook permeates through the goals Bowser has listed in 2024.

“My goal for this season is to take my team to state while proving to the state of Georgia I’m one of the best athletes,” he said.

Ever since the end of his sophomore year, Bowser has been working hard at his craft to become the best football player possible. He talked about improving his speed and quickness, an important metric for a player listed at 5’9″ and 175 lbs.

Against Carver, Bowser’s speed impacted the game beyond just a game-winning touchdown catch. He got an interception at his own 20 and flipped the field returning it 50 yards. Then another reception in the slot where he caught a short pass and sprinted through the heart of the defense for another 50 yards.

If he continues this play, his explosiveness will soon draw the attention of college scouts. Speaking of which, the junior quickly talked about how his recruitment was going so far.

“Recruiting is going well, always wish for more exposure and notice from coaches, but as long as I keep showing out on the field, I’ve just been patient!”

With the recruiting cycle more or less starting now for the class of ’26, patience will be key for Bowser and 95% of the players in his recruiting class, so be sure to follow @RecruitGeorgia on Twitter/X to hear the latest on the junior and athletes all across the state.

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