The Wylie Pirates boys bas­ketball team controlled its own destiny to claiming back-to-back district titles.

Wylie just needed to contin­ue to win with eight games re­maining in district play. That’s when an unfortunate loss to Naaman Forest on Jan. 26 caused Wylie to lose their place at the top of 9-6A, as they lost 54-46 to the Rangers, who thor­oughly outplayed the Pirates and used their depth to their ad­vantage. Four different players scored nine points or more for Naaman Forest.

Justin Whitmore was a force inside for Naaman Forest, scor­ing 10 points to go along with 10 rebounds and five blocks. Autavius Hobbs also scored 15 points for the Rangers in the victory. Naaman Forest limited Wylie from attacking the interi­or and the Pirates’ offense fal­tered in the loss.

For the full story, see the Feb. 3 issue or subscribe online.

By Kyle Grondin • [email protected]