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Sam Funches, a 7-foot senior center at Germantown High School, received the MHSAA Class 7A 2026 Mississippi Mr. Basketball award, becoming the first male player from his school to win this honor.

Ranked #7 center and 58th overall recruit nationally in the Class of 2026 by 247 Sports Composite, with a 7-foot-5 wingspan known for elite rim protection and agile mobility.

Led Germantown Mavericks to the 2025 MHSAA Class 7A State Title and runner-up finish at the 2026 State Championship.

Will attend Gonzaga University for the 2026-2027 basketball season, joining a program that has reached the NCAA Sweet 16 nine times in the past 11 seasons.

Mississippi House of Representatives formally commends Funches for his athletic excellence, leadership, and bringing distinction to his school, community, and state.