Biloxi hosts MLK Gulf Coast Classic

Biloxi is hosting the second annual MLK Gulf Coast Classic on Monday at the Biloxi Sports Arena.

Games start at noon when Gulfport and Oak Grove square off in a girls' contest. The event concludes at 6 p.m. when Gulfport and St. Martin collide. Other games in the tournament are West Harrison vs. Mary Montgomery at 1:30 p.m., Biloxi girls vs. Vigor Girls, 3 p.m.; and Biloxi vs. Vigor, 4:30 p.m.

The MLK Tournament started last year at Gulfport. Biloxi and Gulfport officials have decided to alternate the event between the two schools, a format similar to the season-opening Shrimp Bowl doubleheader in football.

"Gulfport coach Owen Miller and I felt it would be a great idea to have the game at both venues," Indians coach Seber Windham said. "We're trying to showcase the Coast's basketball tradition. We're hoping to have a strong crowd."

Lady Admirals coach Donny Fuller likes the event's new format.

"I think it is a great idea," Fuller said. "We are excited to be playing in it. We look forward to playing someone different in a very good Oak Grove team."

Gulfport and St. Martin is a matchup of two former No. 1 teams ranked by The Sun Herald. Stacee St. Julian is averaging a Coast-leading 23.1 points and 3.5 steals a game for the Yellow Jackets. Keevon Oney is averaging 9.1 points for the Admirals.

This story was originally published January 17, 2016 at 1:27 PM with the headline "Biloxi hosts MLK Gulf Coast Classic ."