House Resolution 74

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE 2023-2024 CANTON HIGH SCHOOL TIGERS BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM AND HEAD COACH BRIAN TOWNSEND UPON WINNING THE MISSISSIPPI HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION CLASS 5A STATE BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Canton High School Tigers Boys Basketball Team and Head Coach Brian Townsend reign supreme after finishing the 2023-2024 season with an impressive 26-4 record, and capturing the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) Class 5A State Basketball Championship for the first time since 1997; and

WHEREAS, throughout their season, the Tigers played with clear eyes, full hearts and unimaginable amounts of fortitude, and during the state championship game, their mental stamina and athletic prowess never wavered from the moment they first hustled onto the court until the final buzzer buzzed, as they outlasted, outplayed and ultimately overpowered Yazoo City High School in a 58-40 win; and

WHEREAS, the noise was apparent before the game started as hundreds of fans were still trying to make their way into Mississippi Coliseum while seats filled up in what seemed like seconds, but the excitement for one of the most anticipated MHSAA state tournament basketball games was delivered from start to finish; and

WHEREAS, Jamarion Davis-Fleming, who could hear the crowd noise pregame and feel how electric the moment was, said all the fans from Canton that came down to support only helped fuel the team, and dunk after dunk by Davis-Fleming, the cheering crowd provided the Tigers with every ounce of energy they had in the hope of witnessing a state title; and

WHEREAS, Davis-Fleming highlighted the reason why he was a Clarion-Ledger Dandy Dozen selection and a 2024 Class 5A MHSAA Mr. Basketball winner, as he brought relentless pressure down low and produced 25 points and six rebounds; and

WHEREAS, to claim this illustrious victory, the Tigers relied on their swift feet, accurate shooting and strategic defensive moves to stop the opposing offense and outmaneuver their defense, which ultimately allowed them to bring the coveted Gold Ball Trophy back to the Canton High School trophy case; and

WHEREAS, the Canton High School Tigers are comprised of the following talented athletes: Jamarion Fleming, Armani Watson, DeAndre Lewis, Jaylon Hollins, Cesar Rodriguez, Zakirius Gilkey, Joshua Brown, Braylen Reaves, Cameron Warren, Taryl Hoskin, Cameron Parker, Jataevion Johnson, Jaylon Ross and Ty'trevien Greenwood; and

WHEREAS, the Tigers have been superbly coached and inspired by Head Coach Brian Townsend, who has broadened the players' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution, and he continues to build upon the legacy of superior play and true sportsmanship forged by the tenacious and undaunted spirit of each team member; and

WHEREAS, the members of this team will carry the unforgettable memories they made along their way to championship status, whether it be the long hours in the weight room or the grueling practices, as well as the lessons of hard work, dedication and perseverance learned during this amazing season, throughout their lives as they are constantly flooded with the feeling of greatness that accompanies being a champion; and WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend excellence, especially that displayed by the Canton High School Boys Basketball Team, and it is with great pride that we congratulate this elite group of student-athletes and Head Coach Brian Townsend, who have brought honor to Canton High School and to the great State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the 2023-2024 Canton High School Tigers Boys Basketball Team and Head Coach Brian Townsend upon winning the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A State Basketball Championship, and extend best wishes to the team and coaches for continued success in all their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Head Coach Brian Townsend and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.