Pineville junior Justin Descant kicked off his 2022 in style, running the second fastest 800m time (1:57.88) in the state. The only one who ran faster was St. Augustine's Zander Dunbar  (1:57.70). Dunbar has graduated and moved on to Tulane University. Two other half milers--Lejaune George (1:58.27) and Tray'quan Francis(1:58.31)--have also graduated.

Descant finished second to Dunbar at the 2022 LHSAA State Indoor Championships.

Returning to battle for the LHSAA State Indoor Indoor 800m title will be LSU commit Rhen Langley. The Zachary distance ace had a best time of 1:58.46 in 2022.

While Langley, who won the 1600m and finished second in the 3200m at last year's state meet, attempted to run all three distance events, he was not a serious threat in the 800m race. 

Other returners in the top ten include Catholic's Winston Decuir (1:59.66) and Scotlandville's Josiah Whitaker (2:00.55), who transferred from Ruston High School during the off season. 

Who do you think will have the fastest time indoors during the 2023 indoor season? Vote here. Poll closes on 12/19 at 11pm.