West Union used a strong fourth-quarter finish to defeat Wheeler 64-49 in the quarterfinal round of the MHSAA Class 1A playoffs on Wednesday at the Davis Event Center.
West Union carried a 50-43 lead into the fourth quarter after seeing a 17-point advantage trimmed during a competitive third period. Wheeler’s defensive adjustments after halftime, switching from a zone to a trapping defense, helped fuel the comeback attempt. Case Null led Wheeler with 18 points, including two three-pointers in the third quarter that helped cut into the deficit. Ashton Beene, Wheeler’s top scorer this season, was limited to eight points.
The Eagles responded in the final quarter, closing the game on a 14-3 run to secure the victory. Wheeler briefly pulled within four points early in the fourth before West Union regained control and extended the margin down the stretch.
Jon Grey Morrisson led West Union with 21 points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks. Eleven of his points came in the third quarter as Wheeler attempted to rally. Jack Rutherford added 15 points and nine rebounds, Jaxon Herod scored 14 points, and Carson Conlee finished with 10. Conlee and Morrisson each had eight points by halftime as West Union built a 34-23 advantage at the break after leading 20-8 at the end of the first quarter.
West Union had a dominating night on the glass with a 40-19 rebounding advantage.
With the win, West Union improves to 34-1 and advances to face Leflore County in the semifinals Monday at the Mississippi Coliseum. The appearance marks the program’s first trip back to the Coliseum since 2023.
