PJ Wallace-Vype

MUSKOGEE HIGH SCHOOL

One of the most talked about additions to Muskogee High’s 6A-II championship team this season has been that of running back Preston James “PJ” Wallace who transferred to Muskogee from Bartlesville where he rushed for over 3400 yards and 32 touchdowns his three seasons in the Bruins backfield. At the time, there was a lot of rumor and innuendo about the transfer even with the state’s new, relaxed transfer rules. But coach Travis Hill dispelled all of that as he talked about how it all went down.

“When the family first approached us about transferring, I sat PJ down and laid down the law. He would start out as the fifth team running back and have to work his way up and be treated like any other new player. I pointed out there may be some jealousy and hurt feelings that he might have to deal with, and that we would follow all the rules surrounding the new transfer policy. But given all of that, he was still determined to make the move. He was an on-line student initially driving back and forth, but his folks put all of those rumors to rest when they physically moved from Bartlesville to Muskogee,” said Hill. “I personally think that the competitive edge we had over Bartlesville in his three years (outscoring the Bruins 140-69) and the fact that we support our players and really push the college recruiting effort were also factors in his decision.”

One of the things Hill praises is the humble attitude that Wallace has displayed in his time as a Rougher.

“He didn’t come in here thinking he was “the guy”. He came in and met everyone and even hugged most of them,” Hill laughed. “He was very gracious, not making it about himself and he’s carried that on as the season has progressed.”

So far in 2024 Wallace has delivered for the Roughers with over 800 yards in rushing through the first six games including 107 yardsagainst his former teammates.

“He’s such an intense runner which is a great example of how to play the game for our players,” said Hill. “He’s just a great teammate and we’re certainly lucky to have him.”