A standout basketball season across Okmulgee County has been punctuated with well-deserved recognition, as several local athletes were recently named to their respective All-Conference teams, highlighting both individual excellence and the continued strength of county programs.

Leading the way for Morris High School, three Eagles earned postseason honors following a competitive season on the court. Steven Bender and Braden Sparks were both selected as All-Conference players, while Jax Finch received Honorable Mention recognition.

Bender and Sparks played key roles in Morris’ success throughout the season, providing consistent scoring, leadership and defensive presence. Their ability to impact games on both ends of the floor made them vital pieces for the Eagles, while Finch’s contributions off the bench and in key moments did not go unnoticed by conference coaches.

Over at Preston High School, the Pirates saw multiple athletes earn top recognition in the Heartland Conference, showcasing the depth of talent within the program.

For the Preston boys, Pheonix Finch and Kent Rice were both named All-Conference selections, cementing their status among the top players in the league. Finch’s athleticism and scoring ability made him a constant threat, while Rice’s physical play and versatility helped anchor the Pirates on both ends of the court.

On the girls side, Preston continued its strong tradition with an impressive list of honorees. Ashleigh Hurt, Kynlee Martin and Mattie Mangum were all named All-Conference, recognizing their standout performances throughout the season. Each player brought a unique skill set to the floor, combining scoring, ball-handling and defensive intensity that helped drive the Lady Pirates’ success.

Additionally, Bella Byington and Delanie Long earned Honorable Mention All-Conference honors, further emphasizing the team’s depth and overall impact in conference play.

These honors not only reflect individual accomplishments but also speak to the strength of basketball programs across Okmulgee County. Coaches and teammates alike understand that such recognition is earned through countless hours of practice, teamwork and dedication. As the season comes to a close, these All-Conference selections serve as a testament to the hard work put in by these student-athletes and the continued growth of basketball throughout the county. With many of these players expected to return next season, the future remains bright for both the Morris Eagles and Preston Pirates programs.

For now, however, the spotlight belongs to these athletes – whose efforts have earned them a place among the best in their conference.