Sports

Rocky Bayou’s breakthrough season ends with Sweet 16 loss to Providence School

Despite an 84-29 loss in the Sweet 16, the Knights capped a breakthrough year that included program-best marks and a district title.

Travis Espy

Saturday’s Sweet 16 matchup against Providence School wasn’t the ending the Knights were hoping for, but it doesn’t erase what they accomplished this season.

Providence School pulled away for an 84-29 victory, taking control in the second quarter by outscoring Rocky Bayou 38-5 to build a 56-10 halftime lead. By the fourth quarter, it was a running clock.

But the final score shouldn’t overshadow a season full of firsts for the Knights. Rocky Bayou posted its first winning season and playoff appearance since 2016 and claimed its first district title since 2014. The team also put together the best start in program history.

The Knights will lose only one member of their starting five in Xavier Crawford. Calix McCune, Cullen McCune, Harrison Sanders and McCabe Olin will all return next season, giving head coach Garrett Ruppel a strong foundation to build on.

Providence School will host The First Academy in the Elite 8. The First Academy beat P.K. Yonge 65-36.

PROMOTION

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

Sports

The best of 2025-26: A look back at the top 15 Okaloosa & Walton sports highlights

Public Safety, School

Rocky Bayou Christian School shooting threat traced to fifth-grade student, Niceville police say

Sports

Rocky Bayou makes history, Sloan shatters javelin record at 1A state track and field championships

Sports

Niceville, Fort Walton Beach lead area softball charge into state playoffs

Timothy W Yelverton commented on Col. Terrance Keithley takes command of 96th Test Wing at Eglin

“I sure hope he will change the hunting regulations and let us hunt during the week days this year.”

Respond

Brenda J Castillo commented on Okaloosa Administrator says property tax amendment could cut $24 million from county budget by year two

“A compromise would be to reduce property taxes for all senior citizens, with restrictions for newcomers. Without restrictions, too many seniors would flock here. Maybe seniors who have their homes...”

Robin commented on Kemp’s ridley sea turtle found dead on Walton County beach, entangled in beach chair

“Just heartbreaking.”

Neal Brickner commented on Okaloosa Administrator says property tax amendment could cut $24 million from county budget by year two

“A 3 percent reduction on a budget that's almost doubled in 6 years. Come on. How could they possibly do it? They might actually have to drive their personal vehicle...”

Ken commented on Okaloosa Administrator says property tax amendment could cut $24 million from county budget by year two

“We can also sell the naming rights to roads. Eglin Parkway becomes Amazon Road, for example.”

Keith in Crestview commented on Okaloosa Administrator says property tax amendment could cut $24 million from county budget by year two

“So sick of politicks complaining they cant live on less blood from the host. You and I are the host! CUT! CUT! CUT! Enough! Why does a county have VA...”

Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: June 17, 2026

“0:57, 4 attempts”

Joseph Dale Eversole commented on Okaloosa Administrator says property tax amendment could cut $24 million from county budget by year two

“First off, start by wrapping all the Sherriff's department vehicles with Tourism advertisements. Now you can use TDC money. Second, Parks, Library, and Transit could be designated as Tourist Attractions....”

Vera Scavuzza commented on WordroW: June 17, 2026

“Time: 03:24. way to go Michael”

Get The Coast commented on New ‘welcome arch’ coming to Vandegriff Park in Downtown FWB, public input sought on design

“They aren't showing them until the meeting”