The Charger Boys’ basketball team made the finals for the MHSAA basketball championships.
The Chargers were set to play Velma Jackson at 1:30 p.m. at the Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson in the 2A playoffs.
All Choctaw County Schools and campuses were closed on Tuesday, March 1 for persons to have the chance to support the Chargers.
Choctaw County knocked off the Northside Gators 57-56 to advance through the third round and into the semifinals of the Class 2A State playoffs. The Chargers earned a berth to play Velma Jackson at the Big House on Tuesday at 1:30 p.m.
Choctaw County returned to the playoff picture this week after Charleston was removed due to an ineligible player. The Chargers returned to play with a home court advantage on Saturday night.
After a tough first quarter where the Gators dominated 10-4, the Chargers struggled to stay in the game. At the close of the first half, Northside led 27-19.
Senior Jayy Cole opened the second half with a 3-point field goal for Choctaw County. Northside answered with two points. Cork hit back to back 3-point shots for the Chargers, which was followed by baskets made by Calvin Roberts and Caleb Cunningham. Cork hit another 3-point field goal to close the gap. Choctaw County came within one point of Northside at the end of third quarter 44-43.
The fourth quarter opened, with Cunningham's two free throws to tie the game. Northside answered with a 3-point basket. The Chargers fought back with Cunningham's basket. The Gators went on a six-point scoring run to keep the lead 55-49.
With 3:40 left in the game, Choctaw County hit five free throws to come within one point of North side 55-54. The Gators had an opportunity to go ahead and take the game with free throws but fell short to only make one. With 9.7 second left in the game Cunningham's basket and free throw sealed the deal for the Char gers.
Cunningham was the leading scorer for Choc taw County with 23 points, while Roberts contributed 15 points.
