Houston, January 22, 2026
In a thrilling Martin Luther King, Jr. Day basketball matchup, the Second Baptist Eagles faced off against Calvary Baptist Academy. Despite a strong effort, the Eagles narrowly lost with a final score of 63-61. This game showcased the dedication and sportsmanship of high school athletes, contributing to their personal growth and community pride. The Eagles continue their impressive season aiming for another state championship, playing under the guidance of a strong coaching philosophy while fostering leadership and teamwork among the players.
Houston –
Houston Eagles Battle in MLK Jr. Day Thriller
Second Baptist delivers a valiant road effort, falling just short in a tight contest against Louisiana’s Calvary Baptist Academy.
High school basketball in Houston, TX, consistently showcases the dedication and talent fostered within our communities. These young athletes embody the spirit of hard work, discipline, and teamwork, traits that extend far beyond the hardwood. Monday’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day matchup saw our own Second Baptist Eagles travel to face a formidable opponent, a testament to their commitment to seeking out top-tier competition and embracing challenging environments. While the scoreboard may not have reflected a victory for the Houston squad, the grit and determination displayed are invaluable lessons in personal growth and sportsmanship.
Such events are more than just games; they are foundational experiences that build character and leadership. They unite schools and neighborhoods, creating a sense of collective pride and shared purpose. For Second Baptist, every game is an opportunity to reinforce the values that define their program and represent the best of Houston prep sports. These contests not only hone athletic skills but also shape young men into responsible and resilient individuals prepared for future opportunities.
A Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Showdown
On Monday, January 19, 2026, the Second Baptist Varsity Boys Basketball team engaged in a compelling Martin Luther King, Jr. Day matchup against Calvary Baptist Academy High School. The Eagles traveled to Calvary Baptist Academy for the road contest, where they ultimately fell by a narrow margin, with the final score standing at 63-61 in favor of Calvary Baptist Academy. This highly competitive game underscored the challenging nature of interstate prep sports and the high level of competition both teams brought to the court.
Second Baptist’s Championship Pedigree
The Second Baptist Eagles from Houston are a program built on a strong foundation of success and deeply held principles. In 2025, under the leadership of Coach Taylor Land in his inaugural season, the Eagles clinched the TAPPS 5A State Championship, defeating Grace Prep with a decisive 65-47 victory in the finals. This marked the program’s first state title since 2018 and its fourth overall. The Eagles are currently maintaining an impressive overall record of 22-3 and an undefeated 4-0 record in their district, positioning them first in their district and ranked 14th in Texas. The team is openly aiming for a repeat championship performance in 2026, driven by a philosophy that prioritizes collective success over individual glory. The Second Baptist basketball program is guided by five core principles: humility, passion, unity, servanthood, and thankfulness. It strives to foster a Christ-centered family culture while intentionally developing leadership qualities in all its coaches and players.
Key Eagles on the Court
The success of Second Baptist is fueled by a roster of talented and dedicated athletes. Among the notable players is Reese “Lil Skip” Alston, the reigning TAPPS-5A Player of the Year. Alston is nationally ranked at No. 24 and recognized as a four-star blue-chip talent, holding more than 20 Division I offers. The team’s dynamic offense also benefits significantly from the contributions of Shia Francis, a senior guard committed to Navy, who averages 15 points and 7 rebounds per game and earned first-team, all-state honors. Junior Will Goolsby also received first-team, all-state recognition, contributing 13 points and 4 rebounds per game. Senior Maverick Manginello and junior Cason Hall are additional integral components of this loaded unit, all focused on achieving another state championship in 2026.
Calvary’s Resilient Performance
The Calvary Baptist Academy Cavaliers, hailing from Shreveport, Louisiana, proved to be formidable opponents, showcasing why they are a highly respected program. Calvary holds a strong overall record of 19-4 and an unblemished 4-0 record in their district, placing them first in their district and ranked 3rd in Louisiana. Their program philosophy centers on “building the whole child” and has been dedicated to “educating leaders of tomorrow since 1970”. Their narrow victory against the Second Baptist Eagles on this significant day highlights their own discipline and competitive spirit.
Character Forged in Competition
Games like the MLK Jr. Day matchup against Calvary Baptist Academy are pivotal in the development of young athletes. Beyond the final score, these contests emphasize the importance of preparation, perseverance, and resilience. Every possession, every defensive stop, and every tough shot taken builds a deeper understanding of teamwork and personal accountability. Competing against strong programs on the road helps players learn to overcome adversity, maintain composure under pressure, and respect their opponents—qualities that serve them well both on and off the court. It is through these challenges that true character is forged, reflecting the integrity and dedication essential for success in all aspects of life.
Community Pride and the Road Ahead
High school sports foster incredible school pride and fan engagement, creating a vibrant community identity. The Second Baptist Eagles’ journey, including challenging road games and their pursuit of another state title, galvanizes support from students, families, and local businesses. This engagement creates market-driven opportunities for local sponsorships, strengthening the bonds within the community. As the Eagles continue their impressive 2026 season, Houston TX high school basketball enthusiasts are encouraged to follow their progress. The path to a championship is paved with hard work and determination, and every game, whether a hard-fought win or a narrow defeat, contributes to the ongoing narrative of these remarkable student-athletes.
We encourage everyone in the Houston area to come out and support our local athletic programs. Your presence at games provides invaluable encouragement to these young men and women. For more inspiring stories, game recaps, and exclusive features on Houston TX high school basketball and prep sports Houston, be sure to follow HEREHouston.com!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the final score of the Second Baptist vs. Calvary Baptist Academy basketball game?
- Calvary Baptist Academy outlasted the Second Baptist basketball team with a final score of 63-61.
- When did the basketball game between Second Baptist and Calvary Baptist Academy take place?
- The game occurred on Monday, January 19, 2026, as part of a Martin Luther King, Jr. Day matchup.
- Where was the game played?
- The game was played at Calvary Baptist Academy.
- What is Second Baptist School’s current basketball record?
- Second Baptist School has an overall record of 22-3 and a district record of 4-0.
- Who are some key players for Second Baptist School?
- Key players for Second Baptist School include Reese “Lil Skip” Alston, Shia Francis, Will Goolsby, Maverick Manginello, and Cason Hall.
Key Matchup Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Type | High School Varsity Boys Basketball Game |
| Occasion | Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Matchup |
| Date | Monday, January 19, 2026 |
| Houston Team | Second Baptist School Eagles |
| Opponent | Calvary Baptist Academy Cavaliers (Shreveport, LA) |
| Final Score | Calvary Baptist Academy 63, Second Baptist 61 |
| Second Baptist Overall Record | 22-3 |
| Second Baptist District Record | 4-0 (1st in district) |
| Second Baptist Texas Ranking | 14th |
| Calvary Overall Record | 19-4 |
| Calvary District Record | 4-0 (1st in district) |
| Calvary Louisiana Ranking | 3rd |
| Second Baptist Coach | Taylor Land |
| Notable Second Baptist Players | Reese “Lil Skip” Alston, Shia Francis, Will Goolsby, Maverick Manginello, Cason Hall |
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
