Warren Central Junior High defeats Vicksburg Junior High 40-33 in overtime thriller

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) —

Warren Central Junior High School’s boys’ basketball team opened its season with a thrilling 40-33 overtime victory over Vicksburg Junior High School.

The Vikings and Gators battled back and forth throughout the contest, but Warren Central eventually pulled away in overtime to secure its first win of the season.

WCJHS came out strong in the first quarter as Gayvin Turner and Damion Carroll knocked down shots to help the Vikings take an 11-6 lead.

Vicksburg Junior High responded in the second quarter as Kaleb Sims connected on a 3-pointer while Antonio Williams added a couple of layups. The Gators took a 17-15 lead into halftime.

The Vikings continued to battle in the third quarter as Mason Truly and Mickey Grayer knocked down shots to keep Warren Central within striking distance.

However, VJHS maintained its lead behind Malcolm Turner and D’Chance Thigpen, who both contributed offensively. The Gators entered the fourth quarter with a 27-25 advantage.

With the game on the line, Gayvin Turner and Truly stepped up offensively for Warren Central while Thigpen continued to make plays for Vicksburg Junior High.

Neither team could put the game away in regulation, forcing the season opener into overtime.

The Vikings took control in the extra period by spreading the ball around and finding scoring opportunities. Warren Central eventually pulled away to secure the 40-33 victory.

Gayvin Turner led the Vikings with 13 points while Truly followed with 11. Thigpen led the Gators with 12 points.

Warren Central Junior High stats:

• Gayvin Turner: 13 points
• Mason Truly: 11 points
• Damion Carroll: 6 points
• Cor’Darius Miles: 6 points
• Mickey Grayer: 2 points
• Jaderious Jackson: 2 points

Vicksburg Junior High stats:

• D’Chance Thigpen: 12 points
• Malcolm Turner: 8 points
• Kaleb Sims: 8 points
• Antonio Williams: 4 points
• Rush Sudds: 1 point