It was a special week on the hardwood for two standout seniors in Floyd County.

On Friday night, Floyd Central’s Dylan Boyd etched his name into school history, scoring his 1,000th career point in the Jaguars’ win over Betsy Layne. Just a few days later, Prestonsburg’s Allison Howard matched the feat, reaching the 1,000?point mark during the Lady Blackcats’ victory over Magoffin County on Monday.

Both players have been cornerstones for their teams, and this milestone reflects years of dedication, hard work, and consistency on the court.

Congratulations to Dylan Boyd and Allison Howard on joining the prestigious 1,000 Point Club! An achievement that will be remembered long after the final buzzer.

STANVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Betsy Layne High School has announced Nathan Martin as the new head coach of the Bobcats boys’ basketball program.

Martin, a 2011 graduate, played a major role in the Bobcats’ 2011 All “A” State Championship run. After high school, he competed for one season at the University of Pikeville under national championship coach Kelly Wells.

He currently works as a pharmacist for Commonwealth Pharmacy in Pikeville. Martin and his wife, Laura, have two children, Atlas and Silas.

In the announcement, Martin said returning to Betsy Layne holds personal significance. He emphasized that the lessons he learned as a Bobcat shaped him long after graduation, and that moving back to the community was an intentional decision for his family.

Martin said his goals as head coach extend beyond wins and losses. He plans to focus on work ethic, accountability, respect, and overall personal growth. He also aims to help players pursue future opportunities whether in basketball, academics, careers, or individual development  and hopes to build confidence and purpose that will benefit them long-term.

He added that the program will continue to be grounded in positivity, discipline, and pride, with an emphasis on representing Betsy Layne with class and understanding the importance of wearing the Bobcat jersey. Martin also expressed appreciation for the community’s support and said he looks forward to leading the program with integrity.

*Photo provided by Betsy Layne High School

STANVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Betsy Layne High School’s boys’ basketball program is undergoing a major change early in the season, as head coach Mike Howard has stepped down from his position.

The Bobcats are four games into the 2025–26 campaign and sit at 1–3 heading into Friday’s 58th District matchup on the road at Floyd Central. Howard’s departure comes less than a year after guiding Betsy Layne to a 19-10 record, the 2024–25 58th District championship, and earning 15th Region Coach of the Year honors from the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches.

In a statement, Howard said his decision was based on differing expectations between himself and school administration. He thanked the school and community for the chance to lead his alma mater and reflected briefly on the memories made during his tenure.

School officials haven't announced who will take over head coaching duties for the program.

EASTERN, Ky. (WMDJ) — The air in the gymnasium on Saturday night was charged with the excitement of a home opener, and the Floyd Central Jaguars did not disappoint. Coming off his inaugural win the previous evening, Head Coach Matthew Perry looked to secure his first victory in front of the home crowd. His wish was granted as the Jaguars delivered a compelling performance, defeating a formidable opponent in Powell County, 72-59, marking the team's second straight win.

Howard's Dominance Sets the Tone
The heart of the Jaguars' attack belonged to the towering presence of Lucas Howard. Continuing his sensational start to the season, the big man was an absolute force, delivering an impressive double-double that anchored the team's offense and defense. Howard poured in 27 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, all while shooting a hyper-efficient 73% from the field.
He wasn't alone in the effort, as Chris Spriggs provided crucial offensive support, finishing the night with 18 points and contributing 6 rebounds.

Key Performers:

• Lucas Howard: 27 points, 12 rebounds
• Chris Spriggs: 18 points, 6 rebounds

Howard and Spriggs were the only two Jaguars to reach double figures, but the scoring was well-distributed among the rest of the starting five. Christian Johnson added 9 points, while both Dylan Boyd and James Samons chipped in with 8 points apiece.

Efficient Execution Seals the Deal

Floyd Central’s victory was built on a foundation of efficient shooting and solid rebounding. The team connected on an impressive 52% of their field goal attempts overall. While they shot 62% from the free-throw line, their work on the glass was pivotal, securing 29 rebounds against a tough opponent. This two-game winning streak signals a positive start under Coach Perry's new leadership.

The Jaguars will look to extend their streak and maintain their home momentum this coming week. They are scheduled to host Phelps on Thursday, with tip-off slated for 7:30 PM.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Prestonsburg Lady Blackcats picked up their second win of the young season Saturday, rolling past Powell County with a convincing 65–31 victory.

Jade Fitzpatrick led the charge, pouring in a team?high 20 points while adding 6 rebounds to her stat line. She was the only double?digit scorer for Prestonsburg, but the rest of the roster delivered a balanced effort that kept the scoreboard moving and the momentum firmly in the Lady Blackcats’ favor. Kandace Music chipped in 7 points, while Candace Allen and Sierra Slone each added 6. Allison Howard and Amelia Newsome contributed 5 apiece, rounding out a steady offensive attack.

The real difference came on the glass. Prestonsburg dominated the boards, pulling down 43 rebounds. Lakien Stephens led the way with 8, while Fitzpatrick and Addison Wright each grabbed 6. Howard and Newsome added 5 rebounds apiece, ensuring second?chance opportunities and limiting Powell County’s possessions.

The Lady Blackcats shot 37% from the field and 55% from the free?throw line, numbers that reflected their control of the game from start to finish.

Prestonsburg now turns its attention to Wednesday night, when they’ll host the Pikeville Lady Panthers. Tip?off is set for 6:00, and fans can expect another exciting matchup as the Lady Blackcats look to build on their early?season momentum.

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — Floyd Central picked up a pair of district wins Friday night, earning victories in both the girls’ and boys’ matchups against Prestonsburg at the Blackcats’ home opener.

Girls: Lady Jaguars Stay Hot With 57–44 Win

Floyd Central’s girls continued their strong early-season run, defeating Prestonsburg 57–44 behind a balanced scoring night and a dominant defensive effort.

Top Performers – Floyd Central

Mady Engle – 21 points (Game High)

Aubree Moore – 12 points

Chloe Crase – 10 points

Top Performers – Prestonsburg

Jade Fitzpatrick – 12 points (Team High)

Allison Howard – 10 points

Kandace Music – 10 points

Team Statistics

Floyd Central: 22-of-57 FG (39%), 4-of-14 3PT (29%)

Prestonsburg: 16-of-53 FG (30%), 2-of-14 3PT (14%)

Up Next

Floyd Central faces Knox Central on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 6:30 PM in the WYMT Mountain Classic at Knott Central. Live coverage on WMDJ FM 100.1.

Prestonsburg, coming off a 65–31 win over Powell County on Saturday, continues its five-game home stand by hosting Pikeville on Monday night.

Boys: Perry Earns First Win as Jaguars Roll 85–56

In the boys’ game, first-year head coach Matthew Perry secured his inaugural victory as Floyd Central defeated Prestonsburg 85–56. The Jaguars controlled the pace from start to finish with a deep scoring attack.

Top Performers – Floyd Central

Brayden Turner – 18 points (Lee County transfer)

Lucas Howard – 17 points, 17 rebounds (Monster double-double)

James Samons – 14 points

Top Performers – Prestonsburg

Taegan Slone – 22 points (Game High)

Waylon Butcher – 10 points

Team Statistics

Floyd Central 32-of-65 (49%) 4-of-25  3-PT(16%)

Prestonsburg 20-of-61 (33%) 6-of-22 3-PT(27%)

Up Next

Floyd Central hosted Powell County December 6th and got a win by a score of 72-59. We'll have a recap of that game as stats become available. They welcome Phelps on Thursday, Dec. 11. 

Prestonsburg travels to Morgan County on Tuesday, Dec. 9.

MARTIN COUNTY, KY. (WMDJ) — WMDJ Sports tipped off the 2025?26 basketball season from Inez as Floyd Central traveled to face Martin County.

Under new head coach Matthew Perry, the Jaguars entered as a dark horse contender in the 15th Region. Martin County, already a top?3 favorite, added the state’s leading scorer Braxton Keathley to an impressive roster.

Both teams pushed the pace early, though shots weren’t falling in the opening quarter. Floyd Central held a slim 14?13 lead after one. In the second, Martin County sophomore Brayden Marcum provided a spark off the bench with two big threes — one converted into a four?point play — and strong defense. The Cardinals took a 31?28 lead into halftime.

The third quarter saw momentum swing back and forth. Floyd Central’s James Samons scored 8 of his 15 points, while Martin County’s Eli Mills answered with back?to?back threes. The Jaguars tied it at 51 heading into the fourth after a 7?0 run capped by free throws from Chris Spriggs.

But the final frame belonged to Martin County. Three straight Floyd Central turnovers fueled an 8?0 Cardinal run to start the quarter, and they never looked back. Outscoring the Jaguars 22?12 in the fourth, Martin County secured a 73?63 victory to open the season.

Stat Leaders
Martin County

Braxton Keathley: 25 points (8/19 FG, 6/6 FT), 9 rebounds, 6 assists

Bryson Dials: 21 points (8/12 FG, 4/7 3PT)

Devan Maynard: 7 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists

Floyd Central

Chris Spriggs: 22 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists

James Samons: 15 points, 4 rebounds

Lucas Howard: 13 points, 14 rebounds

Team Shooting

Martin County: 46% FG (26/51), 36% 3PT (13/36), 77% FT (10/13)

Floyd Central: 47% FG (27/58), 7% 3PT (1/14), 53% FT (8/15)

Rebounds

Floyd Central: 39

Martin County: 23

Both teams now turn their attention to weekend tournament play. Martin County travels to Pike Central for the DJ Begley Boys Basketball Classic to face Perry Central.

Floyd Central hits the road to Prestonsburg for a 58th District doubleheader and we'll be there to cover the action. The girl's game is set to tip off at 6:00pm with the boy's game following approximately 20 minutes after, and you can watch and listen to every second of both games on WMDJ FM 100.1, Facebook, YouTube, our mobile app, and online at WMDJFM.com. 

WMDJ Sports will be broadcasting tonight from Martin County High School as the Cardinals welcome in the Floyd Central Jaguars and their new head coach Matt Perry to open the 2025-26 season.

This is a rematch of last year's 15th Region Tournament semifinal thriller that saw the Cardinals beat the Jaguars 103-85 in the second highest-scoring game in 15th Region Tournament history.
 

Tune in to the Howard Family Pharmacy Countdown to Tip-Off Show to get ready for the 7:30pm start!