Number 7. JaQuavion Bryant
School: Pearl High School
Class: MHSAA 7A
2023 5K(XC) SB: 17:17.9
Season Analysis:
Holding down the No. 7 spot, Pearl's Jaquavion Bryant may have had a less than stellar performance at The Opener, but it would be a mistake to discount this powerhouse runner. As the reigning MHSAA 6A 3200m Champion, with an impressive 9:31 in the 3200m and a commendable 15:40 5K (XC) PR, Bryant's record speaks volumes. Considering the Pearl Pirates are only one race into the season, we're confident Bryant will soon return to form and prove why he's more than deserving to be on this list.
Number 6. Colin Brannon
School: Madison Central High School
Grade: Senior
Class: MHSAA 7A
2023 5K(XC) SB: 16:33.4
Season Analysis:
Securing the No. 6 position, Madison Central's Colin Brannon isn't just the reigning MHSAA 6A 3200m Champion but is also a master tactician on the field. Known for his strategic consistency and uncanny ability to peak at the right moments, Brannon showcased his skills with a stellar comeback at the 2023 Memphis Twilight Classic. Launching his 2023 Cross Country season with a top-15 finish and a time of 16:33, his prowess was evident as he adeptly maneuvered from the back, passing numerous competitors in the latter half of the race. While there were rumors about the Memphis course being longer than standard, potentially putting Brannon's actual time closer to an astonishing 16:10, it's pivotal to remember that Cross Country is all about the thrill of competition. Times on the grass can vary, but Brannon's spirit of competition remains unyielding, solidifying his place on the All-MileSplit Mississippi team.
No. 5 Bailey Kosko
Making his debut on the All-MileSplit Mississippi team, Oxford High's Bailey Kosko clinches the No. 5 spot, marking a significant milestone in his career. Delivering a remarkable performance at Memphis, he edged past Brannon to secure a 14th-place finish with a time of 16:32. As mentioned above, there's chatter about the Memphis course potentially being on the shorter side, but this remains Kosko's most swift season opener yet. Recognized for his unyielding determination and fearless approach to competition, Kosko is unquestionably one to keep an eye on as the season continues to unfold.
No. 4 Graham Weiss
From Hernando High and surging into the No. 4 position after being notably absent from the preseason lineup, Graham Weiss is turning heads this season. His impeccable record boasts a stellar undefeated streak with three consecutive wins to his credit. Though his strength of schedule may be less than others, Weiss has still notably shattered two course records and seen him emerge victorious in a tight contest at the 2023 TCPS Twilight Classic against formidable opponents like the Tupelo Sports duo, the formidable Saltillo High School team, and the swift 16:09 5K (XC) runner Giles Jones. Known for thriving in longer distances, particularly on grass terrains, the excitement is mounting to witness how Weiss measures up when pitted against even tougher adversaries in the near future.
No. 3 William Fugate
Madison St. Joseph's standout, William Fugate, clinches the No. 3 position, distinguishing himself as the sole entrant on this list outside of MHSAA 7A. While he faced an unfortunate bout of heat stress at The Opener, his grit ensured he still secured a top-10 finish amid a highly competitive roster. This performance not only speaks to Fugate's race prior to the fall, but equally highlights his unparalleled mental resilience. Arguably, Fugate could be considered among the mentally toughest runners in the state. Although nudged down a notch on the All-MileSplit Mississippi team, the spark in Fugate's determination is evident, and it's only a matter of time before he's back and aiming for that coveted No. 1 position.
No. 2 Farren Oberto
Ascending rapidly to the No. 2 position after an electrifying kick-off at "The Opener - 2023", Pearl's Farren Oberto stands tall as a formidable force on the All-MileSplit Mississippi Cross Country roster. Racing against a stacked field, Oberto clinched a commendable second place with a blazing 16:03, setting a new personal best for his season openers. Beyond this recent achievement, we shouldn't overlook his remarkable 9:32 performance in the 3200m. Known for his consistent pacing and the reliability he brings to every race, Oberto's presence at the forefront of any competition is almost a given. His spirited start to the season is a testament to his tenacity and promises even more thrilling races ahead.
No. 1 Andrew Brown
Rocketing to the top, Tupelo's freshman sensation, Andrew Brown, is redefining what it means to be a young powerhouse in the Cross Country scene. Labeling his season as "Hollywood" might even be an understatement given the cinematic rise he's showcasing. Brown's upward trajectory has been apparent, and he's left no doubts about deserving the state's No. 1 ranking. His talent was first on full display with a commanding out-of-state victory in Florence, Ala., clocking the season's fastest time so far at 16:02. Not resting on his laurels, Brown then stormed Memphis, Tenn., securing a top-10 finish at the Memphis Twilight Classic with a ninth-place result, leading the Mississippi pack with a time of 16:17. Brown's meteoric ascent promises exhilarating face-offs in the forthcoming meets, with many waiting in anticipation for his performance at meets such as the renowned Watson Cross Country Classic. The trail he's blazing is undoubtedly one for the history books.