Zaire Colbert Joins a Fort Walton Beach Team Ready to Take the Next Step
Fort Walton Beach has already shown it can win. Now the Vikings are entering the 2026–27 season looking to see how much further they can take it.
Coming off a 21–8 season that included a District Championship, the No. 1 seed in the district and a trip to the Sweet 16 of the Florida state playoffs, Fort Walton Beach has a strong foundation in place. Several key players return from that group, while the addition of nationally ranked Zaire Colbert adds another major piece to the roster.
But after speaking with Fort Walton Beach head coach Chris Carswell, it was clear that what he and his staff are building goes beyond wins and talent.
Over the past two seasons, Carswell and his staff have worked to establish an identity centered around Safety, Honor, Respect and Integrity, along with what the Vikings call their EVERYDAY KID standard. Fort Walton Beach tested that foundation against quality competition last season, including road games against strong programs outside of Florida.
The Vikings went 7–1 after the break, secured the top seed in their district and carried that momentum into the postseason.
Zaire Colbert Adds Another Dimension
One of the biggest additions is Zaire Colbert, a nationally ranked prospect who is also ranked No. 1 in the state at his position in his class.
Colbert brings athleticism and another dynamic playmaker to a team that already had several pieces in place. His ability should create opportunities for the players around him while also raising the level of competition within the program.
While Colbert will naturally draw plenty of attention, Fort Walton Beach won’t have to rely on one player.
The Returning Core
Junior Leo Ivison gives the Vikings a legitimate floor spacer. His range forces defenses to respect him well beyond the three-point line, opening driving lanes and creating additional room for Fort Walton Beach’s other offensive weapons.
Fellow junior Memphis DeLong brings a different element. He can push the ball in transition, attack the basket and finish through traffic, giving the Vikings someone who can apply pressure before defenses have an opportunity to get set.
Kyle Jones provides a needed physical presence inside. His ability to compete around the basket and rebound gives Fort Walton Beach balance alongside its perimeter talent.
Sean Simon returns after establishing himself as arguably the Vikings’ best two-way player last season. His toughness, versatility and ability to contribute on both ends make him an important part of this year’s group.
A Roster Built to Play Different Ways
What makes Fort Walton Beach interesting entering this season is how well the pieces complement one another.
Colbert brings high-level talent and athleticism. Ivison provides shooting. DeLong can create pressure in transition and attack the rim. Jones gives the Vikings an interior presence, while Simon provides proven production on both ends.
That combination gives Fort Walton Beach options. The Vikings can space the floor, increase the tempo, attack the basket or work inside depending on the matchup. They also have the returning experience of a group that has already been tested in postseason basketball.
Carswell also understands that adding talent doesn’t automatically guarantee another successful season. The Vikings will still have to defend, rebound, take care of the basketball, compete and play together.
Those details helped Fort Walton Beach win 21 games last season, and they’ll become even more important as the expectations surrounding the program continue to rise.
A District Championship and Sweet 16 appearance gave Carswell and the Vikings something to build from.
The 2026–27 season is about taking the next step.
