More highs than lows in boys' hoops season

MERIDIAN — The Franklin County High School varsity boys’ basketball team saw its season come to an unceremonious close on Monday, Feb. 13 as the Bulldogs dropped a round-of-32 Class 3A decision to Southeast Lauderdale, 65-38.

FC exited the District 7-3A post-season tournament two weeks ago as the No. 3 seed while Southeast Lauderdale was the No. 2 seed from District 5.

Since last Monday’s decision, Southeast Lauderdale defeated 8-3A No. 1-seed Tylertown, 67-55, to advance to the Elite Eight round of the boys’ playoffs.

In looking back on the most recent hoops campaign, Franklin County’s boys were 20-9 overall while going 9-4 in district play.

FC’s lone district losses were to Port Gibson and Hazlehurst, who both finished as the No. 1 and No. 2 seeds coming out of the 7-3A tourney.

Despite the first-round playoff loss, FC Head Basketball Coach Rickey Van O’Quinn said he felt like his Bulldogs had a great season — especially with a 21-8 overall record.

“It was a disappointing end to the season because it was not typically what we do around here,” he said.

“Still, when you look at the big picture, it was a season filled with more highs than lows. We’re sad that things ended the way they did, but, for the most part, it was a pretty good season.”

O’Quinn said his squad’s goals included winning at least 20 games, which was a milestone that was met, but coming in third in district and making a deeper run was not in the cards.

“We were blessed with a wonderful group of seniors – with five of the seven part of our program since seventh grade,” he continued.

“There was a lot of growth that was seen in every one of them during their time with us and they contributed a lot to where we are today.

“When people look back on this season in the years to come, I think everyone will see the mark these guys left on this team and what we hope to accomplish in the future.”

Among the boys’ basketball team seniors were Michael Covington, Ken’Trez Bonds, Ja’Zavier Malone, Kepatrick Nimox, De’Quavious Norman, Ja’Quavious Norman, Tyrese O’Neal, Daylen Thomas and Derrick Ja’Matre Wilson.

“We are also fortunate to have a great deal of talent from our younger kids … we know there’s going to be a lot of work to do because we’re losing so many seniors, but we have the nucleus to build on with our underclassmen.”

O’Quinn specifically pointed out to the talent level in his current junior class, which will help fill the void at the top for the 2023-2024 season.

“Jailan Hunt, Jamie Green and Quez Rancifer got a lot of minutes on the court this season and we hope that will pay dividends for us next season,” he went on to say.

“Additionally, there are some junior varsity kids – especially in the ninth grade – that will be asked to step up and do a lot if we want to continue to be successful.”

The off-season will be key for the Bulldogs with a focus on developing individual and team talent, and O’Quinn said he can’t help but believe these up-and-coming players will be instrumental in forging a solid legacy for the future.

“It means a lot for these guys to wear that Bulldogs uniform and we’ll be pushing them to reach new heights when it comes to preparation through the weight room and practices along with actual game participation,” he added.