Live Update: South Carolina QB Air Noland’s Incredible Journey and Unique Legacy
When it comes to standout athletes, few can match the story of Air Noland, South Carolina’s newest quarterback. And here’s something that sets him apart even more—May 15, 2023, was officially declared “Prentiss ‘Air’ Noland Appreciation Day” in South Fulton, Georgia. That’s right, the city where Noland grew up recognized his impact with a proclamation signed by the mayor and city council.
The proclamation highlighted his accomplishments:
“Prentiss led the Langston Hughes Panthers to a 2021 state runner-up finish in the 6-A classification and an undefeated season in 2022, accumulating 15 wins against zero losses, resulting in the 2022 6A State Championship.”
Reflecting on the honor, Noland told Georgia Public Broadcasting, “It was an appreciative moment for me. Not a lot of people in South Fulton get that day.”
But then again, not many are like Air Noland.
A Record-Breaking High School Career
Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 220 pounds, the left-handed quarterback with a lightning-fast release had one of the most remarkable high school careers in Georgia. He led Langston Hughes to its first state championship in school history, passing for over 10,000 yards and tallying more than 100 touchdowns during his time on the field.
His achievements, coupled with his maturity and leadership, earned him the city’s recognition. But as his high school coach Daniel “Boone” Williams points out, it wasn’t just about his skills on the field.
“He’s a giver,” Williams said. “He would talk to special-needs kids. He talks with freshmen. He is going to lead by example. He was always on time, attentive, and eager to help. The custodial staff knew him. The cafeteria staff knew him. He was speaking to everyone.”
Williams emphasized how rare it is for a player of Noland’s caliber to remain grounded despite constant praise. “When people keep telling you how great you are, it’s easy to lose your humbleness. But not Air.”
The Road to South Carolina
After a highly decorated high school career and a stint at Ohio State, Noland made the surprising decision to transfer to South Carolina, knowing he wouldn’t start immediately. According to Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer, no promises were made to the young quarterback.
“I didn’t promise Air anything but the opportunity to compete,” Beamer said in December. “Didn’t promise him the backup job. Nothing.”
Noland’s timeline is clear: He’s set to learn under current starter LaNorris Sellers, a projected top SEC quarterback expected to head to the NFL in the near future. While some might shy away from the challenge, Noland embraces it.
His high school coach explained, “He wanted to be loved. He was looking for the vibe, the feel of the community and the coaching staff. Of course, he also wanted to be coached by the best.”
A Quarterback’s IQ and Confidence
Noland’s football IQ is as impressive as his stats. At Langston Hughes, he was trusted to call his own plays for two drives each game.
“I’d just tell him, ‘Air, you’ve got it,’ and he’d run the show,” Williams said. “He could set protections, get the formation set, and deliver routes to receivers. His smarts are through the roof.”
What’s Next for Air Noland?
While Noland may not see the field immediately, he has a year to grow under the tutelage of Beamer and offensive coordinator Mike Shula. Whether his time comes in 2024 or beyond, one thing is certain: Air Noland’s combination of skill, intelligence, and humility will make him ready for any challenge.
This young quarterback has already earned a day named in his honor, and with his talent and work ethic, his future at South Carolina—and beyond—looks just as promising.
