PETERSBURG, VA (March 15, 2026)—Last night, the Petersburg High School (PHS) boys varsity basketball team brought home their first Virginia High School League (VHSL) Basketball Class 3 State Championship Title in 52 years! In a packed stadium at the Virginia Commonwealth University’s (VCU) Siegel Center, PHS faced off against Lake Taylor High School (LTHS), an opponent they had played and beat earlier in the season during the Region 3A Championship in February 2026. In a 56-35 win over LTHS, PHS earned their first State Championship title since 1974.

Under the leadership of Varsity Basketball Coach and Assistant Athletic Director Tytrail White, the PHS boys varsity basketball team has had a dynamic season. With a 21-4 record this season, the team qualified to play in the State Championship for the first time since 2022. 

“I could not be prouder of the entire team. Their dedication and teamwork has been evident throughout the season. Their consistent hard work has culminated in earning the highest title in the state, and it was well earned by each team member. I am honored to serve as their coach. It’s our turn now!” said Coach Tytrail White. 

Coach White, a Petersburg High School alum and Virginia State University graduate, has over 20 years of coaching experience and has been named the VHSL Coach of the Year six times. This is his eighth state championship win and his first for PCPS. The team captain, Latrell Allmond, is an Oklahoma State commit and a selection for the 2026 McDonald's All-American Game. 

“After 52 years, the Crimson Wave have once again risen to the top, capturing the Class 3 State Championship. This victory is more than a title. It is a testament to the dedication, discipline, and pride that define Petersburg basketball. Your hard work has brought pride and excitement to Petersburg, and your accomplishment will be remembered for generations,” said Board Chair Kenneth Pritchett. 

“I am so proud of our boys varsity team, coaching, and support staff, and I am thrilled for our entire PHS community. Our boys varsity basketball team, led by Coach White, has had an amazing season. I have been impressed by their focus and commitment, as they have worked together to win the Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and now the State Championship. This is a testament to their focus, tenacity, and commitment each step of the way,” said Superintendent Yolonda Brown. 

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Petersburg City Public Schools serves approximately 4,500 students from preschool to adult across nine schools in Petersburg, VA. PCPS is home to 672 staff members who serve the school division community. The mission of PCPS is to develop and empower students through innovation and collaboration so they demonstrate virtue, good character and make meaningful contributions to society. The vision of PCPS is to transform and expand opportunities for learning so that every student graduates with a life filled with choices: Enrolled, Enlisted, Employed, and Entrepreneurship.