Wayne made a statement in its first-ever state tournament appearance on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, rolling past Doddridge County in a Class AA quarterfinal at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center.

The Pioneers set the tone early behind a dominant first half from Landon Preece, who erupted for 20 first-half points to spark a double-digit lead. Colton Heck added 10 points in the opening half as Wayne built a commanding 37-18 advantage at the break.

Doddridge County showed flashes behind Blake Mitchell, Jared Trent, and Heston Hayes, but Wayne’s momentum never slowed. The Pioneers extended their lead in the third quarter with strong play from Heck, who finished with 21 points, while Andrew Dotson facilitated the offense with multiple assists.

Wayne continued to pour it on in the second half, with contributions from Carter Ross and Colton Preece, as the lead ballooned to over 20 points. Preece finished with a game-high 29 points in a dominant all-around performance.

With the 72-48 victory, Wayne advances to the Class AA semifinals, where they will face the winner of Wheeling Central Catholic vs Frankfort.