Warren Central defeats Vicksburg in front of sold-out crowd

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Warren Central High School’s boys’ basketball team earned a 58-51 victory over crosstown rival Vicksburg High School in front of a sold-out crowd that provided a loud, energetic atmosphere throughout the night.

Vicksburg jumped out to a fast start in the first quarter, taking a 16-6 lead behind two timely 3-pointers from Jaquez Jones. Warren Central responded in the second quarter as Deric Gibbs Jr. and Micah Moore each knocked down 3-point shots to swing the momentum. Avery Williams and Davon O’Neal added key baskets before halftime, helping the Vikings close the gap. Jaquez Marshall capped the half with a two-handed dunk for the Gators, but Warren Central carried a 28-26 lead into the break.

Marshall continued to pace Vicksburg coming out of halftime, but Warren Central maintained control in the third quarter. Gibbs connected on another 3-pointer, while Nash Morgan, Jaylen DeFrance and O’Neal contributed offensively to extend the lead. The Vikings outscored the Gators in the period and took a 41-33 advantage into the fourth quarter.

Missed opportunities by Vicksburg proved costly down the stretch, as Warren Central protected its lead and prevented any late comeback to secure the rivalry win.

Gibbs Jr. led Warren Central with 16 points, followed by O’Neal with 13. Moore and Robert Williams each scored nine points, Avery Williams added five, Morgan finished with four, and DeFrance contributed two points.

For Vicksburg, Marshall led all scorers with 21 points. Jones finished with 14 points, Jayden Stewart scored seven, Jadarius Henderson added five, Devin Banks had three, and Marlyn Foy scored one point.