Bank of Holly Springs

Fielder’s Choice

Successful seasons

I learned 16 and a half years ago when I moved to this area that basketball is king when it comes to sports.

The proof has been in the pudding most every year due to consistent success of our high school teams.

The ultimate goal, of course, is a state championship and there have been plenty of those since 2001.

Some critics might say this year was not successful – due to no state crowns – but I say you’re wrong.

There are 46 schools in Class 3A in the Mississippi High School Activities Association, 46 in 4A, and 45 in 1A.

The Holly Springs Hawks finished second in 3A, the Byhalia Lady Indians second in 4A and the Ashland Blue Devils second in 1A.

All wanted state titles – no doubt about it – and all gave 110 percent toward that goal. Ashland was going for a third straight.

But as coach Rolley Tipler told me after his team’s loss to Okolona last Thursday, “A lot of players and coaches never make it to this point – ever.”

Amen, coach.

In addition to the public schools, both the Marshall Academy Lady Patriots and Patriots also took second in the state in the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools Class AA State Tournament.

I saw each of the area teams play several times in February and March.

And my biggest compliment is that, as young men and women, they represented their hometowns and home counties with class and dignity.

While at the games, in addition to taking notes and sometimes shooting photos, I also post scores regularly via The South Reporter’s social media – Twitter and Facebook.

Fans are good to respond in praise of their teams.

After Saturday’s Holly Springs versus St. Andrew’s game, Holly Springs native Karvis Jones echoed my thoughts when it comes to not just the Hawks, but all the teams who finished second in the state.

From Karvis Jones – “Wow! What a season. The Holly Springs basketball team finished the season as the runner-up in the Mississippi Class 3A championship game. Congratu­lations on a great season, Holly High. You made my hometown proud. Fly, Hawks, fly!”

And in regard to the character of the players themselves in Marshall County, take a look at this Facebook post from senior DaQuan Smith, the all-time leading scorer in Holly High history.

From DaQuan Smith – “I would like to say thanks to Holly Springs High School for taking me in as a freshman. We’ve been through some hard times and fun times. I know it hurts I didn’t bring back that gold ball, but hopefully I left a legacy that will live on forever and with that being said, Holly Springs will always have a place in my heart. I appreciate all my fans and the ones I touched over the years.”

Next season, Smith will be playing for the Wichita State Shockers.

I enjoyed the ride this post-season, due to players like Smith, who know the true meaning of success – on and off the court.

Holly Springs South Reporter

P.O. Box 278
Holly Springs, MS 38635
PH: (662) 252-4261
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