At the fifth annual Jerry Jones Classic game on Saturday, Aug. 30, Plano Senior High School played relentlessly against Odessa Permian High School. By the end of the fourth quarter, the Wildcats secured the first win of the season against the Permian Panthers with a score of 27-17. The game held appearances from Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, and four of his very own Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders. The event also showcased impactful plays from both teams, recognition towards star athletes, and an overall vibrant game to kick off the 2025 season.
The game began with Jerry Jones leading the coin toss, which Plano had won. The atmosphere of the stadium was prideful and ecstatic as the national anthem played and the kickoff proceeded. The game started off slow, although the pace was soon picked up by Permian. Although Odessa is a five hour drive away, a generous crowd was there to cheer and support the Panthers and overall hype the players up for the game. The sea of maroon and white were loud as Plano took over the game with their first touchdown made by number nine Caden Brown. For the event, Plano was granted home game advantage making it easier for the team to feel the love and support.
“The game is going great so far, I feel like Plano’s going to come down with the win,” says Alex Tadeo, A Plano Senior high student, sharing his spirited perspective on the game.
When Plano scored a touchdown or intercepted the ball, Plano fans were quick to uproar and leap out of their seats. The cheers were loud as the band accompanied the excitement shared from the crowd. It seemed as if not a single Plano fan had one doubt they would lose.
At half time, Plano Senior High’s Principle, Kennitra Robertson shared her thoughts on the game. “It is incredible to see so many Wildcat fans, students and families in the stands, to see Plano with so much energy is exciting and we are looking forward to an amazing wildcat win at The Star.”
As the game was concluding and fans began leaving the stadium, two 1980 alumni from Odessa Permian were happy to share how it felt to be rooting for the Permian Panthers— despite the loss to the Plano Wildcats.
“We came to the game in order to watch Permian play our arch rivalry. We were hoping to get revenge because they beat us twice while we were Sophomores and Juniors, and it didn’t happen for us today.” says Mark and Rodney.
The support from every fan that showed up contributed to make the game a night full of school spirit— not only for the fans but everyone who was involved in the game. Even those who watched on television that afternoon could testify that the level of school pride was clear on both sides of the field. The representation of both schools’ spirit was greatly appreciated on Saturday and concluded in a contribution into making the game one to remember for both schools. Although it was a Wildcat win, Permian left the Star with knowledge that it doesn’t matter how many hours friends and family have to travel; they will show up and show out.
