At Jesse Carson High School, rising junior Drew Neve embodies a profound dedication that transcends the typical aspirations of a young athlete. His every move on the basketball court is a living testament to his beloved mother, Angie Arrowood Neve, whose memory he carries not just in his heart, but vividly etched across his chest in an intricate tattoo. This deeply personal tribute serves as a constant wellspring of motivation, driving his relentless energy and unwavering toughness throughout each basketball season, making him a compelling figure in youth sports.
Angie Neve, a radiant individual described by those who knew her as a “lovely person” with a “warm smile,” tragically succumbed to cancer in the spring of 2022, shortly before her 47th birthday. Her life was marked by service and education, having studied radiography and later becoming a clinical instructor at Forsyth Tech and Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. Her husband, Dale, eloquently expressed the family’s enduring commitment to her legacy, stating, “everything we do, we do to honor Angie and her memory,” highlighting the powerful athlete tribute that defines Drew’s journey.
The centerpiece of Drew’s homage is a remarkably detailed chest tattoo, a permanent canvas that visually encapsulates his mother’s spirit. This extensive artwork features her name, “Angie,” alongside symbolic angel wings, a serene sea of clouds, a prominent cross, a small heart, and a full Bible verse from Second Timothy: “I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.” This powerful imagery allows Drew to carry his mother’s presence directly onto the court, making every game a personal act of remembrance and an inspiration to his team.
Despite initial reservations from his father, who doubted Drew’s endurance through the lengthy process, the then-teenager sat stoically for five hours to complete the tattoo. He recalls the most challenging part being the intricate cloud work, yet he has never wavered in his conviction, nor has his father regretted the decision. This profound act underscores Drew’s unwavering commitment to honoring his mother, who was not just a driver to games but a constant source of support and encouragement, famously advising him to “sharpen [his] elbows” during tough contests in high school basketball.
Drew, known for his 6-foot-4 frame, combines his mother’s easy smile and blonde hair with his father’s height, creating a versatile player for Jesse Carson High. Though he has primarily played in the post out of necessity, his ideal position is small forward, leveraging his length and agility. He is credited with pioneering the alley-oop slam for Carson basketball, adding dynamic dunks to their playbook and showcasing his remarkable athleticism as a rising star in the league.
As a sophomore, Drew averaged an impressive 13.9 points for a 17-10 team, often as the fourth offensive option, demonstrating his consistent impact. His defensive prowess allows him to block shots on one end before sinking a three-pointer on the other. His contributions were vital in Carson’s upset victory over South Piedmont Conference champion Robinson, highlighting his crucial role in key games, despite occasionally facing foul trouble. This showcases his dedication to both individual performance and team success in competitive sports.
Looking ahead, Drew is poised for a significant junior season, having already garnered interest from institutions like UNC Pembroke and Johnson & Wales. The addition of 6-foot-6 Lake Norman transfer Will Hall and former East Rowan guard Corbin Krider promises to bolster Carson’s roster, potentially alleviating Drew’s foul trouble concerns and allowing him to play more freely. His journey from baseball as a primary sport to finding his true passion in basketball underscores a focused determination to excel.
Beyond the statistics, Drew’s story resonates as a powerful narrative of resilience and love, showcasing how personal loss can fuel extraordinary achievement. His athletic pursuit is not merely about winning games but about sustaining a cherished memory, inspiring teammates, and embodying the values his mother instilled in him. He remains a beacon of strength and dedication, proving that the deepest motivations often come from the heart.
