Woodville Basketball Team Awaits Court Ruling on Tournament Eligibility

Players remain in limbo as they prepare for potential postseason matchup.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Woodville High School's basketball team is in a state of uncertainty as they await a court ruling that will determine their eligibility and opponents for the upcoming tournament. The team has continued practicing and staying positive despite the cancellation of their previous game, with head coach Rob Murphy expressing confidence in his players' ability to compete for the area championship.

Why it matters

The court's decision will have a significant impact on Woodville's basketball season, potentially determining whether they can advance to the postseason tournament or be forced to end their season prematurely. The outcome of this case could also set a precedent for how similar eligibility disputes are handled in the future.

The details

Woodville High School's basketball team had a game cancelled on Monday night due to the ongoing legal dispute over their tournament eligibility. Despite the uncertainty, the team has continued practicing and preparing, with head coach Rob Murphy saying they are trying to stay positive, unselfish, and relentless. The team is hoping to end their 27-year drought and win the area championship, but that will depend on the court's ruling.

  • Woodville High School's basketball team held practice on Tuesday afternoon.
  • The team's previous game was cancelled on Monday night.
  • The sub-regional rounds of the tournament are scheduled to start on Friday.

The players

Rob Murphy

The head coach of the Woodville High School basketball team.

Woodville High School

The school that the basketball team represents, located in Huntsville, Alabama.

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What they’re saying

“It's a huge opportunity for us. Woodville hasn't won an area championship since 1995, and we believe in ourselves and our ability to get that done and we're excited to take the floor. Anytime, anywhere, any opponent lets go we're ready to play.”

— Rob Murphy, Head Coach (WAFF)

“It's going to be an interesting time, it already has been, in terms of how this post season plays out but, the amount of support from the staff, the families, the teachers at this school you know even just this week hearing just additional support, and help, and encouragement. It's a really special environment here.”

— Rob Murphy, Head Coach (WAFF)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Friday whether or not to allow Woodville High School's basketball team to participate in the upcoming tournament.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges that high school sports teams can face when dealing with eligibility disputes and court rulings that can significantly impact their season. The outcome will not only determine Woodville's tournament fate, but could also set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.