by Hunter Dawkins, Publisher/Owner – editor@thegazebogazette.com or hdawkins@supertalk.fm

PERKINSTON (GG) — Unfortunately, the West Harrison Boys & Girls Basketball programs ended their season on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at the Weathers Wentzell Center on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in Perkinston, Mississippi.  However, both were successful enough to reach the MHSAA 6A State Quarterfinals and only losing a few key players at the end of the season.

BOYS:  Hattiesburg 45 West Harrison 38
After holding the highly athletic, fast-paced Hattiesburg High team to a 17-15 deficit at the half, the West Harrison Hurricanes (18-12, 8-2) could not hold the Tigers back anymore.  The Tigers outpaced West Harrison 30-21 in the second half and ended their season in the MHSAA 6A State Quarterfinals.  
West Harrison will have to replace Devin Goodman, Owen Reese, and Keshawn Cook who will graduate.  The Tigers now have a 23-8 record and will travel to Jackon to play Olive Branch Thursday, February 27 in the MHSAA 6A Semifinals at the Mississippi Coliseum.
GIRLS:  West Jones 51 West Harrison 44
Similar to the boys, the Lady Hurricanes jumped out to an early lead, ahead of West Jones 23-21 at the half, including a combined 3 three-point baskets from West Harrison Guards Sydnei Barber and Jazlee Deschamp.  The Lady Mustangs made some crucial halftime adjustments and took the lead with a 16-7 third period.
Despite Barber’s 20 points, the Lady Hurricanes could not make a rally past West Jones.  The Lady Hurricanes (25-6) will lose Jalynn Applewhite, Zamora Gooden, and Miranda Parker to graduation.
“We fought hard until the end,” said West Harrison Girls Head Basketball Coach Patty Norwood in her third year for the Lady Hurricanes that have been to the MHSAA playoffs in all of her years at the school.  “I have truly enjoyed coaching these young ladies and am proud to be their coach.  My seniors will be especially missed off the court.”
The Lady Mustangs (26-4) will now prepare for their challenge against Olive Branch in the MHSAA 6A Semifinals at the Mississippi Coliseum Thursday, February 27.