The Mineola Yellowjackets earned a 52–31 road victory over the Quitman Bulldogs last Friday night, using a strong defensive effort and a decisive second half to pull away after a competitive first half.

The game began evenly, with both teams trading baskets and finishing the first quarter tied at 9–9. Mineola began to create separation in the second quarter, outscoring Quitman to take a 25–19 lead into halftime.

However, Mineola decisively took control after halftime, limiting Quitman to four points in the third quarter while extending its lead to 38–23. The Yellowjackets continued that momentum into the final period, widening the gap and closing out the game with a 52–31 win.

Zane Phillips led Mineola with 20 points, including going 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. Phillips also collected eight rebounds – five on defense and three on offense. Ainsley Steward followed with 13 points and made solid contributions, including one offensive rebound, four defensive rebounds, two assists, and four steals. Cason Peebles added six points and three steals, while Kolton Garrigus recorded five points, three rebounds, and three steals. Beckham Bowker chipped in three points, two rebounds, an assist, and two steals. Steven Reyes contributed two points, three rebounds, four assists, and two steals, and Chance Williams finished with a point, two rebounds, and a steal.

Mineola’s defense played a key role in the win, as they finished the night with an impressive 16 steals and 20 defensive rebounds.

For Quitman, senior Klayton Meadows led the Bulldogs with 12 points, seven defensive rebounds, two assists, and three steals. Jonathan Hayes and Logan Davis each scored six points, with Hayes also adding two rebounds, an assist, and a steal. Riley Mason finished with three points, two rebounds, and a steal. Matthew Moore and Corben Long each contributed two points and two defensive rebounds, with Long also adding an offensive rebound, an assist, and a steal. Ty Harkins also recorded a steal.

With three games to play, Mineola secured a playoff spot, sitting in third place.