Photo: DeSoto Central’s Ace Webster looks to score against Hernando Thursday night in the Jaguars’s victory. (Bob Bakken/desotocountynews.com)
Behind a smothering defensive performance and a breakout night from sophomore standout Hunter Avant, the DeSoto Central Jaguars cruised to a commanding 71-53 victory over the Hernando Tigers. The Jaguars utilized an explosive first half and relentless defensive pressure to secure the win in front of a packed crowd.
Jaguars Set the Tone Early
From the opening tip-off, DeSoto Central established a relentless pace. Blake Price ignited the offense early, scoring seven of his 11 total points in the opening frame. The Jaguars jumped out to a 14-3 lead just four minutes into the game, punctuated by a rare five-point possession. Following an intentional foul by Hernando on a made basket, DC knocked down two free throws and a subsequent three-pointer on the retained possession.
By the end of the first quarter, the Jaguars held a 22-6 lead, leaving the Tigers struggling to find an offensive rhythm against DC’s length.
Defensive Pressure and Transition Scoring
DeSoto Central head coach Blake Orman emphasized that the game plan was built on defensive communication. The strategy paid off as the Jaguars extended their lead to 37-16 by halftime.
“I thought we came out with a lot of intensity, especially in our defense,” Orman said post-game. “We present some problems with our length and athleticism… I wanted to see if we couldn’t capitalize with some transition.”
The pressure peaked in the third quarter when DeSoto Central pushed the margin to 30 points, leading 52-22—their largest lead of the night.
Stat Leaders: Avant and Banger Shine
Sophomore Hunter Avant led the charge for the Jaguars, finishing with a game-high 22 points, 12 of which came during a dominant first-half performance. Supporting the offensive effort was Shaun Banger, who tallied 13 points and connected on three shots from beyond the arc. Eight of Banger’s points came in the second half to help stave off a late Tiger surge.
Hernando found some offensive life late in the game. Landon Graham led the Tigers with 13 points—all scored in the second half—including three three-pointers. Jumarion Joyner added 12 points, while Roderick Johnson contributed seven in the effort.
Final Stretch
Hernando managed to chip away at the lead during the fourth quarter, utilizing a late run to close the gap, but the outcome was never in doubt. The Jaguars’ early dominance, fueled by Avant’s scoring and a collective defensive effort, ensured an 18-point victory at the final buzzer.
Knight leads DeSoto Central girls past Hernando
Behind a standout scoring performance from Lakelynn Knight, the DeSoto Central Lady Jaguars secured a commanding 49-30 victory over the Hernando Lady Tigers on Thursday night.
DeSoto Central established dominance early, utilizing a stifling defense and a consistent transition game to keep Hernando at bay for much of the contest.
Lady Jags Set the Tone Early
The Lady Jaguars wasted no time asserting their will on the court. After jumping out to a quick 2-0 lead, DeSoto Central clamped down defensively, holding Hernando to just three points in the opening frame. By the end of the first quarter, the Lady Jags held a 13-3 advantage.
The momentum continued through the second quarter. DeSoto Central opened the period on a high note, stretching the lead to 18-3 by the midway point. A late flurry before the break saw the Lady Jaguars head into the locker room with a comfortable 26-7 lead.
Hernando Rallies in the Third
Hernando refused to go away quietly. Coming out of halftime, the Lady Tigers found their rhythm, led by Hannah Cole, who finished the night with a team-high 8 points.
During a spirited third-quarter run, Hernando managed to cut the deficit to just seven points, bringing the score to 28-21. However, Lakelynn Knight and the Lady Jags responded quickly, closing the quarter on a 5-0 run to enter the final frame leading 33-21.
Knight Closes the Door
In the fourth quarter, DeSoto Central regained complete control. Knight, who finished with a game-high 14 points, spearheaded an offensive push that pushed the lead back to double digits. With 4:32 remaining, the Lady Jags led 38-23 and never looked back, eventually sealing the 49-30 win.
Prep basketball
Sideline Cancer Classic – DeSoto Central
Thursday, Dec 18
(Girls) Briarcrest 57, Magnolia Heights 21
(Boys) Magnolia Heights 66, Horn Lake 57
(Girls) DeSoto Central 49, Hernando 30
(Boys) DeSoto Central 71, Hernando 53
SIDELINE CANCER CLASSIC NOTABLES: In the Magnolia Heights boys victory, Jason Edwards scored 17 points for Horn Lake and Magnolia Heights was led by Jack Mills with 26 points…
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
