Key Takeaways:

• The 2026 Cullman County Basketball Tournament began at Wallace State in Hanceville, Alabama

• 5 seed Holly Pond earned an upset win over #4 seed West Point, 32-27

• A strong defensive performance kept the score tight
• Mayfield emerged as a key player for Holly Pond
• West Point’s Beckitt Nunnelley played a notable role in the backcourt

Setting the Stage

The 2026 Cullman County Basketball Tournament tipped off at Wallace State in Hanceville, Alabama, ushering in a weekend of high-stakes competition. In one of the day’s most anticipated showdowns, the #4 seed West Point faced the #5 seed Holly Pond JV girls in a first-round contest that would set the tone for the tournament.

A Gritty Defensive Showdown

From the opening whistle, both teams showcased disciplined and physical defense, holding each other to minimal second-chance opportunities. As the game progressed, neither side allowed the other to gain more than a few points’ separation, reflecting a level of intensity that kept the crowd engaged on every possession.

Star Performers Face Off

Central to the back-and-forth battle was the clash between West Point’s Beckitt Nunnelley and Holly Pond’s Mayfield. Both guards led their teams with confident ball handling and timely scoring. Their efforts turned each possession into a pivotal moment, with neither willing to concede an edge in the backcourt.

A Thrilling Finale

As the final minutes ticked away, Holly Pond’s defense held strong, forcing key turnovers and preventing West Point from mounting a comeback. When the last buzzer sounded, the scoreboard read 32-27 in favor of Holly Pond, securing a memorable upset that resonated through the Wallace State gym.

Looking Ahead

Although details beyond this opening round are limited, the upset victory signals the competitive energy that lies ahead in the 2026 Cullman County Basketball Tournament. Holly Pond’s defensive grit and Mayfield’s standout performance set a high bar as the rest of the field continues to battle for county-wide supremacy.