🎙️ From the Editor’s Desk | Issue #2 Recap
5A Championship Edition Highlights
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The Title That Shocked the State
The second issue of our Championship Edition delivered fireworks worthy of a primetime tip‑off. On the boys’ side, the Benton Panthers staged a comeback for the ages, erasing a late four‑point deficit to edge Maumelle 58–57 in the 5A final. The girls’ bracket crowned a dynasty as Farmington rolled past Greene County Tech 54–44 to secure a three‑peat and its first 5A championship.
From buzzer‑beating drama to legacy‑defining moments, Issue #2 reaffirmed why Arkansas high‑school hoops has no equal.
Benton Panthers “Unfinished Business” Completed
Benton’s journey from being overlooked to raising the gold trophy could be a movie script. Down by four with 17 seconds remaining, senior Elem Shelby calmly sank free throws, and four‑star junior Terrion Burgess slashed for the go‑ahead layup as the Panthers stunned Maumelle 58–57. Burgess finished with 18 points and five rebounds and was named finals MVP.
Coach Dexter Hendrix’s warrior mentality was embodied by senior Harrison Prickett, who poured in 22 points and later committed to UAPB. Freshman phenom Anthony Spratt added 11 points proof that the future is bright in Benton. The Panthers closed the year 30–3, stamping their first boys state title in more than two decades.
Coaches Corner: “Unfinished to Unforgettable” with Dexter Hendrix
Hendrix opened up about building a player‑led culture and holding his team accountable. He broke down the stars of the show—Burgess, Prickett, Spratt, Elem Shelby, Javarios Russell, Caleb Knight and A.D. Gray—who powered a redemption run marked by a 31‑3 overall record and 32‑0 conference slate. Our interview reveals how he turned a hungry group into champions and left behind a legacy bigger than basketball.
Farmington Lady Cardinals: A Dynasty’s Third Ring
Farmington didn’t just win; it asserted dominance. The Lady Cardinals secured their third straight title and first at the 5A level with a 54–44 victory over Greene County Tech. Freshman Easton McCollough lit up Bank OZK Arena for 24 points on 8‑of‑15 shooting (4‑of‑9 from deep) and added four rebounds and three assists. Senior Marin Adams chipped in 14 points, five boards and four assists.
The difference‑maker? Center Kaycee McCumber, Farmington’s X‑factor, who averaged 12 points and 8.3 rebounds and anchored the paint en route to Pitt State recognition. Coach Brad Johnson’s program finished 30–1, cementing a dynasty that spanned three seasons (2023 breakthrough, 2024 revenge tour and 2025 legacy run). Johnson departs to join the University of Arkansas women’s basketball staff, leaving behind a blueprint built on standards and selflessness.
Coaches Corner: “Three Straight, No Debate” with Brad Johnson
Johnson recapped the keys to Farmington’s dynasty—defense, ball movement and senior leadership—and described how his players chased greatness rather than wins. He shared what’s next as he transitions to the collegiate level.
Other Must‑See Features
- Player Spotlights: Deep dives on star players like Benton’s Terrion Burgess (four‑star 2026 recruit) and Farmington’s Easton McCollough (2025 Final MVP).
- Season Snapshots: Comprehensive charts detailing final records, notable wins (Benton’s 30–3 record; Farmington’s 30–1 mark), and key stats.
- Dynasty Watch: Behind‑the‑scenes look at Farmington’s 2023–25 three‑peat, including leadership from seniors Marin Adams and Zoey Bershers.
- Next‑Gen Stars: Profiles of rising talents like Anthony Spratt Jr. and Kaycee McCumber who will shape future seasons.
Up Next: Issue #3 | 4A Championship Edition
Drop your popcorn it’s time for the 4A throne battle. In Issue #3, we head to Hot Springs to relive the Mills Comets’ 56–51 comeback over Morrilton and the De Queen Lady Leopards’ 62–54 upset of Pulaski Academy, ending a 22‑year drought. Expect MVP spotlights (Zaylin Rowland, Shalyn Lyle) and exclusive interviews with coaches Raymond Cooper and Bret Burgess.
Stay tuned: Friday Aug. 8th @ 4:44 PM.
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