Cyclones Advance to District 1-AAA Title Game with Win Over Crockett

Elizabethton Secures Home Regional Game with Semifinal Victory

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Elizabethton Cyclones defeated the David Crockett Pioneers 54-40 in the District 1-AAA boys basketball semifinals, advancing to the championship game against Tennessee High. Senior forwards Nathan Bailey and Jackson Buckles led the Cyclones' offense, scoring 17 and 15 points respectively. Caleb Eaves scored a game-high 23 points in the loss for Crockett.

Why it matters

The win secures Elizabethton a spot in the regional tournament and a home game, an important advantage in the postseason. The Cyclones were also looking to avenge an earlier loss to Crockett during the regular season.

The details

Elizabethton led from start to finish, getting balanced scoring from their frontcourt duo of Bailey and Buckles. Evan Chambers added 11 points, while Justin Whitehead and Hudson Pate also contributed for the Cyclones. Crockett was led by Caleb Eaves' 23 points, but couldn't overcome Elizabethton's stifling defense.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 23, 2026 at the Dyer Dome at Sullivan East.
  • The District 1-AAA championship game is scheduled for Tuesday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Nathan Bailey

A senior forward for the Elizabethton Cyclones who scored 17 points in the semifinal win.

Jackson Buckles

A senior forward for the Elizabethton Cyclones who scored 15 points in the semifinal win.

Caleb Eaves

A player for the David Crockett Pioneers who scored a game-high 23 points in the loss.

Lucas Honeycutt

The head coach of the Elizabethton Cyclones.

Tennessee High

Elizabethton's opponent in the upcoming District 1-AAA championship game, who defeated Boone 60-44 in the other semifinal.

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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)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

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.