House Resolution 98

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND COMMENDING THE OLIVE BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL "CONQUISTADORS" BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM FOR WINNING THE 2024 MISSISSIPPI HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION (MHSAA) CLASS 6A BOYS BASKETBALL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Olive Branch High School "Conquistadors" Boys Basketball Team reigned victorious against Ridgeland High School in the 2024 Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) 6A Boys Basketball State Championship, the team's second state championship after winning it for the first time in 2018; and

WHEREAS, throughout their season, the Conquistadors 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 Ridgeland High School in a 59-56 win; and

WHEREAS, to claim this illustrious victory, the Conquistadors 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 Olive Branch High School trophy case; and

WHEREAS, the Olive Branch High School Boys Basketball Team is comprised of talented student-athletes who have been superbly coached and inspired by Head Coach Eric Rombaugh, who has broadened the players' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution, as 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 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 Olive Branch High School Boys Basketball Team, and it is with great pride that we congratulate this elite group of student-athletes and Head Coach Eric Rombaugh, who have brought honor to Olive Branch High School and to the 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 Olive Branch High School "Conquistadors" Boys Basketball Team and Head Coach Eric Rombaugh upon winning the 2024 Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) Class 6A Boys State Basketball Championship, and extend best wishes to the team and Head Coach Rombaugh for continued success in all their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Olive Branch High School "Conquistadors" Boys Basketball Team, Head Coach Eric Rombaugh, and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.