No. 9 Ironheads outlast No. 13 Preston 63-60 in OT

Eufaula uses strong defense to defeat Preston in overtime thriller

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The No. 9 ranked Eufaula Ironheads (20-3) used great defense by Ty Sparks and Doltyn Lane in overtime to defeat No. 13 Preston Pirates at Preston on Tuesday. It was a close game that saw both teams trade baskets, with Preston leading 26-24 at halftime. Eufaula came out determined in the third quarter, outscoring Preston 17-9 to take a 41-35 lead. The game went to overtime tied at 53-53, and Eufaula made key plays down the stretch to pull out the 63-60 victory.

Why it matters

This was an important win for the Ironheads, who had to overcome a significant size and athleticism disadvantage against the Preston Pirates. The victory keeps Eufaula in the hunt for a high playoff seed and shows their ability to win close games against tough opponents.

The details

Jentry James led Eufaula with a season-high 26 points, while Ty Sparks added 16 points. Gabe Callison and Doltyn Lane also made key contributions. For Preston, Kovan Rice scored 22 points and Phoenix Finch added 20. The game was tied 53-53 at the end of regulation, and Eufaula made just enough plays in overtime to secure the 63-60 win.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • Eufaula defeated Silo 85-66 on Friday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Ty Sparks

A key defensive player for the Eufaula Ironheads who made several crucial plays in overtime to help secure the victory.

Doltyn Lane

An Eufaula player who made a critical steal in overtime to set up the game-winning free throws.

Jentry James

The leading scorer for Eufaula, pouring in a season-high 26 points to power the Ironheads' offense.

Kovan Rice

The top scorer for the Preston Pirates, tallying 22 points in the losing effort.

Phoenix Finch

A key contributor for Preston, scoring 20 points to keep the Pirates in the game.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.