Orange Beach sophomore standout Lee Steele reached a major milestone last week, topping 1,000 career points on the basketball court while continuing to emerge as one of Alabama's premier multi-sport athletes.

Steele is a 6-foot-6 sophomore who has played varsity basketball since the eighth grade, and has helped power Orange Beach to an 8-3 start this season on the court. Already considered one of the state's top recruits, he played a large role in the Makos' deep postseason run a year ago, guiding them to the Class 4A Regional Final as a freshman.

His latest scoring achievement adds to a growing resume that has drawn the attention of Division I basketball programs.

"This journey to 1,000 points started my 8th grade year," Steele said. "This means so much to me because my brother had 1,200 points in high school. Just to be able to have an opportunity to play this game and with the group of guys I've played with in my career is truly amazing. Having 1,000 is really cool and all, but my main goal is to lead this team to a State Championship."

Also a top-150 national football recruit in the Class of 2028, Steele is rated the No. 6 tight end in the country and the No. 6 overall prospect in Alabama. His football offer sheet includes several SEC powers, among them Alabama, Auburn, Tennessee, Ole Miss and LSU.

In his first varsity football season this fall, Steele recorded 25 receptions for 341 yards and a touchdown while also contributing on defense. Playing safety, he tallied two interceptions, showcasing the versatility that has made him one of the state's most sought-after young athletes.

According to those close to him, Steele is still undecided on which sport he will pursue at the next level. But we have seen a handful talented athletes play football and basketball on the Division I stage; could the Orange Beach sophomore be the next?