Warriors look to remain undefeated

Choctaw Central returns to action after the Christmas break with two important Region 4-4A games on the schedule.

Choctaw Central was to play at Kosciusko on Tuesday and host West Lauderdale on Friday. The Lady Warriors start with an 11-3 record while the Warriors are 15-0. The Warrior teams compete in the same region with Leake Central, Louisville, West Lauderdale and Northeast Lauderdale. The Choctaw Central girls are defending region champions.

“These are the games that start counting,” Coach Bill Smith said. “We didn’t play during the holiday season, but we did practice. We hope the games we have played so far will prepare us for the region schedule. And we still have two Saturday showcases.”

Mattison Bell is the team’s leading scorer, averaging around 12 points per game.

Coach Brent Farmer said his undefeated Warrior team is ready to pick up where they left off before Christmas.

“We have practiced some during the holidays,” Farmer said. “If we can manage this COVID, we will be OK. More people are testing positive every day. We have only had one player to be quarantined so far. Everyone is being careful. I am hoping the kids stay safe and take care of themselves. Just wash your hands, wear your mask and make the right decisions.”

Farmer said he is proud of his team’s good start.

“I have had these kids since they were in the eighth grade,” Farmer said. “They have worked hard to get better, and that work is paying off.”

Farmer said Kosciusko and West Lauderdale will provide tough challenges.

“Kosciusko is always physical, and West Lauderdale has some good size,” Farmer said. “They are well-coached. It is going to be a challenge.

“Normally, we play some during the holidays. But we had scheduled some tough games in November and December. We decided it would be best to let the kids recharge and rest before the district schedule.”