Hoover Bucs going 'old school' with throwback Berry High uniforms this weekend

The Hoover High boys basketball team will honor former players and teams by wearing throwback uniforms during the Bucs’ home game against Dothan on Saturday.

The orange and white uniforms – adorned with Berry on the front – are replicas of uniforms worn by Berry High players.

“This is the first year we’ve done this,” said Hoover coach Charles Burkett, who led the Bucs to a 50-43 win over Mountain Brook last March in the state Class 7A title game. “I felt like it was perfect timing, coming off our first ever state championship, also, just to show appreciation to everyone who came before us who strived for the same goals that we all have. We were just fortunate enough to win it. I want to pay our respect to everyone who has come through the system.”

The players tried on the uniforms for the first time after a recent practice. Many commented on the length of the shorts, which in years past were worn much shorter and tighter. One player suggested he might wear some neon green tights underneath.

“That was pretty much old school,” Burkett said with a smile while talking about the uniform shorts. “For these kids, that is super old school. I think the uniforms turned out awesome, and everyone will love to see the kids in them.”

The uniforms are just part of what Burkett hopes is a crowded reunion of former players at Berry and Hoover High.

“We’re inviting all Berry and Hoover alums back for that game,” Burkett said. “All former basketball players at Hoover and Berry High School, we would like to acknowledge them on that day.”

Tip-off for the game is scheduled for 5:30 p.m., and a hospitality room will be available for all former players.

The current Hoover varsity team is 2-6 and plays again tonight (Dec. 7) at home against Shades Valley High School at 7:30 p.m.