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Magnolia West Baseball’s Historic Playoff Run Ends

**Magnolia West Mustangs Make Program History with Unprecedented Playoff Run to Regional Finals**

MAGNOLIA, TX – The Magnolia West Mustangs baseball team etched its name into the school’s athletic history books this spring, embarking on an absolutely historic playoff journey that saw them reach the UIL Class 5A state tournament Regional Finals before their incredible season concluded. This monumental achievement represents a significant leap for a program that, prior to the 2024 season, had only made the playoffs once in its entire existence, back in 2023.

Under the guidance of Head Coach James Dillard, the Mustangs finished the 2024 season with an impressive 28-14 overall record. More importantly, they secured the program’s first-ever two playoff series victories, captivating the community with their gritty performances and unwavering determination.

“I couldn’t be prouder of this group of young men,” Coach Dillard reflected on the season. “They bought into our system, worked tirelessly, and showed incredible resilience through every challenge. To go from one playoff appearance to the Regional Finals in consecutive years speaks volumes about their character and commitment. They’ve truly set a new benchmark for Magnolia West baseball.”

The Mustangs’ path through the 5A playoffs was a true test of endurance and skill, starting with a grueling three-game series in the Regional Quarterfinals against Lake Creek. From May 16th to 18th, the teams battled fiercely. Magnolia West dropped Game 1 by a score of 5-3 but showcased their resolve by rallying to take Game 2 with a tight 7-6 victory. The series culminated in a dramatic Game 3 on May 18th, where the Mustangs clinched the win with a tense 3-2 victory in 10 innings.

Moving on to the Regional Semifinals, the Mustangs faced Barbers Hill from May 23rd to 25th, demonstrating their growing prowess with a clean sweep. They secured Game 1 with a solid 3-1 win, followed by a thrilling 1-0 walk-off victory in Game 2, courtesy of an RBI single from Garrett Clifford. Pitcher Tristan Pearson was particularly dominant throughout the series, stifling the Barbers Hill offense.

The deepest run in program history culminated in the highly anticipated Regional Finals against Georgetown, a formidable opponent. The series, played between May 30th and June 1st, pushed the Mustangs to their limits. Magnolia West struggled in Game 1, falling 8-0 to a strong Georgetown squad. However, true to their season-long form, they bounced back with grit in Game 2, pulling out a crucial 4-3 victory on May 31st. Pitcher Asa Mansour delivered a strong performance on the mound, and Ashton Schroeder contributed a crucial solo home run that helped force a decisive Game 3.

Ultimately, Georgetown proved too much in the final game on June 1st, defeating Magnolia West 6-2 and bringing an end to the Mustangs’ groundbreaking season. Despite the final loss, the team departed the field knowing they had achieved something truly special.

Key contributors throughout the Mustangs’ impressive run included the aforementioned Garrett Clifford, Tristan Pearson, Asa Mansour, and Ashton Schroeder, alongside other pivotal players like Noah Huff, Brock Dalton, and Caden Miller, who consistently delivered clutch plays and strong performances.

“This was an unforgettable season for all of us,” said a senior player. “We fought for each other every single game, and the support from our school and community was incredible. We’re proud of what we accomplished and hope we’ve inspired future Mustangs teams.”

The 2024 baseball season will forever be remembered as the most successful in Magnolia West High School history, setting a new standard for athletic excellence and inspiring a new generation of Mustang baseball players. The team’s resilience, teamwork, and historic journey have left an indelible mark on the school and the Magnolia community.

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