Hernando softball wins MHSAA 7A championship after 3 title series losses in 4 years

HATTIESBURG — Since Hernando softball's state championship in 2021, the Southern Miss Softball Complex has not delivered the best of memories. The Lady Tigers suffered state championship defeats in 2022, 2024 and 2025. "Well, to come in here the last two years and lose that'll fire you up," Hernando coach Nicki Whitten said.

"These kids have been a part of the good and the tough. " Junior Graycin Higginbotham said a sour taste lingered after the recent results. Shortstop Jayla Sites hinted that more offseason work was needed, as did much of the team.

Hernando (32-5) used a five-run sixth inning to win the MHSAA 7A championship this time, taking Game 3, 9-7, on May 15 against Ocean Springs (29-11). "I'm just so glad my kids responded like they have, all year in tight games," Whitten said. "They've just found a way to do it for each other.

I couldn't be more proud of them. " Hernando claimed its second title. Ocean Springs was in its first state final appearance.