House Resolution 95

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE SHAW HIGH SCHOOL HAWKS BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM FOR WINNING THE MISSISSIPPI HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION 2013-2014 CLASS 1A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, through perseverance and determination, the Shaw High School Hawks Boys Basketball Team has earned a reputation for excellence; and

WHEREAS, this stellar team from Bolivar County has won the Mississippi High School Activities Association 2013-2014 Class 1A Boys Basketball State Championship for Shaw High School; and

WHEREAS, the Green and Gold Hawks roster and support personnel are comprised of the following: seniors, Andre Pruitt, Octavius Stimage, Zedric Bass, Lekia McRoy, Fredrick Bryant; juniors, Ladarius Buckhanon, Deshawn Davis, Malik Walker, DeVontaris Bass and Charles Stimage; sophomores, Jermarquis Stimage, DeMarcus Gilliam, Christopher Freeman and Willie Pegues; freshman, Anthony Davis, Jr.; Head Coach Anthony Davis, Sr.; Assistant Coaches Melvindrick Johnson and D. Johnson; Athletic Director Derandel Allen; Principal L'Kenna Whitehead; and Superintendent Judy Nelson; and

WHEREAS, these Hawks won the State Championship by beating Broad Street and Coldwater in the Region 3-1A Tournament and then beating Vardaman, Ashland, Coffeeville and Coldwater in the North Mississippi Class 1A Tournament, before defeating Hinds Agricultural High School 60-57 in the State Championship in Jackson, Mississippi, fulfilling their goal of bringing a boys basketball state championship home for the first time since 1974; and

WHEREAS, the phenomenal performance of these stellar athletes is a clear indication of their outstanding athletic ability, dedication and hard work, and their drive and determination to be the best; and

WHEREAS, the remarkable season ended in a stellar 24-7 record due to the astute direction of Head Coach Davis and his assistants, who improved the students' understanding of the game and skills in execution; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to commend such excellence as that exhibited by the Shaw High School Boys Basketball Team, who has brought great pride to its school and community:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the Shaw High School Hawks Boys Basketball Team on winning the Mississippi High School Activities Association 2013-2014 Class 1A State Championship, and extend sincere wishes for future success.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the Shaw High School Boys Basketball Team and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.