From Hickory Flat to the North Half

Magnolia Fields

This episode dives into the opening day of the Hickory Flat Thanksgiving Invitational, spotlighting the standout basketball performances and captivating moments that made this tournament a success.
Hosts Tanner Marlar and Cody Blaszczak break down the highlights of day one, sharing their thoughts on the tournament’s top performers and the broader implications for the season ahead.
The discussion highlights Kesean Walker’s dominant 41-point game for Hickory Flat, East Union girls’ impressive second-half turnaround against Houston, and the deep roster of Holly Springs, featuring game-changing eighth graders.
Kesean Walker’s scoring versatility and East Union’s halftime adjustments are analyzed for their potential impact on their respective seasons, while the depth and balance of Holly Springs’ roster is explored in detail.
The hosts place the tournament in the larger framework of Mississippi high school basketball, exploring its significance for player development, team momentum, and the competitive dynamics leading into divisional play.
Special mentions include Braden Shettles’ injury and its potential effect on New Albany’s 4A aspirations, as well as standout performances from teams like East Union boys and Houston.
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[CHAPTERS]
00:00:03 Hickory Flat Thanksgiving Invitational
00:06:21 East Union vs Houston
00:10:17 Houston vs East Union
00:14:44 Braden Shettles' Surgery
00:17:46 Baldwyn vs Vardaman
00:23:57 Predictions: Louisville vs West Point
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SCHOOLS MENTIONED
Hickory Flat, East Union, Houston, Holly Springs, East Webster, New Albany, Baldwyn, Vardaman, West Lowndes, Velma Jackson, Simmons, Calhoun City, Charleston, North Side, East Webster, Choctaw County, Noxubee County, Louisville, West Point, Grenada, South Panola, Warren Central, Tupelo, Madison Central, Starkville.