News Summary

Holly Springs High School is entering a new phase as Brandon Rhodes takes over as the head coach of the varsity boys basketball team. With 12 years of experience as an assistant coach, Rhodes aims to continue the successful legacy of the program, previously led by L.J. Hepp. Sylvester Kilgore also returns to assist, adding his impressive coaching history to the team. The community eagerly anticipates the upcoming season and the players are ready to kick off pre-season activities.

Holly Springs Welcomes New Buzzer Beater Coach

Exciting changes are happening over at Holly Springs High School as the basketball program gears up for a fresh season under new leadership. Brandon Rhodes is stepping into the spotlight as the head coach of the varsity boys basketball team, and there’s plenty for the community to be thrilled about!

A New Era Begins

Rhodes, who has been an integral part of the Holly Springs basketball family for the past twelve years as an assistant coach, is ready to take the reins. He replaces L.J. Hepp, who recently decided to step down after a successful tenure. With a deep understanding of the program’s history and a passion for the game, Rhodes is eager to bring his vision to life and build upon the foundation left by his predecessor.

Athletic Director Rod Whitesell couldn’t hide his enthusiasm during the announcement, noting Rhodes’s reputation as a tireless worker who is committed to developing his teams. Everyone knows that hard work is the key to success, and Rhodes appears to be the perfect candidate to steer the ship in the right direction.

Gratitude and Commitment

Rhodes has expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to lead the program, highlighting the valuable lessons he learned from Coach Hepp. His love for Holly Springs and the supportive community shines through as he gears up for this new challenge. Rhodes is ready to roll up his sleeves and continue the hard work that has been a hallmark of the program’s success over the years.

Speaking of success, there’s another familiar face returning to Holly Springs—Sylvester Kilgore! After spending five seasons at South Panola, Kilgore is back to help young athletes reach their potential. Commuting from Batesville took its toll on him, but now he’s thrilled to contribute locally once again.

Stats to Watch For

Kilgore is not just back for a casual stroll down memory lane. He has an impressive track record of 122-61 as a head coach at Holly Springs from 2012 to 2019, leading the team to six straight district championships. The Hawks made five consecutive trips to the state finals during his previous tenure, with significant achievements as state runners-up in both 2018 and 2019. His experience will undoubtedly contribute to restoring the winning culture that Holly Springs basketball is known for.

Kilgore is excited to share the valuable lessons he absorbed during his time at South Panola, believing that these insights will enhance his coaching abilities. Stability and a competitive spirit are at the forefront of his agenda as he dives back into the game with renewed vigor.

Time for Teamwork

Excitement is building in the Holly Springs community, and pre-season activities, including tryouts and summer workouts, have already kicked off. The Hawks will compete in Region 2-3A, clashing with familiar opponents such as Independence, Coahoma County, and North Panola. It’s shaping up to be an action-packed season, with the opener scheduled for Tuesday, November 4, at Lake Cormorant.

The return of Kilgore has been met with overwhelming positivity from students, parents, and fans alike. The community spirit is alive and well, as everyone looks forward to a rejuvenated basketball experience. Kilgore emphasizes that academic excellence will also play a vital role in the program’s goals, highlighting the importance of balancing sports and studies.

Reflecting on the Past

Hepp’s departure marks the end of an era, but his time with the Golden Hawks will not be forgotten. During his seven seasons, the team not only reached the 4A East regional final in 2023 but also boasted an impressive season record of 21-7 in 2024-25. His influence on dedicated student-athletes and families has been significant. However, Hepp has decided to step back to prioritize his family due to increasing time demands.

With Rhodes and Kilgore stepping into their new roles and the anticipation brewing around the upcoming season, Holly Springs is poised for an exciting chapter in its basketball history. The community’s passion for the game promises to fuel the journey ahead, bringing together players, parents, and fans in pursuit of greatness on the court!

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