Gunter’s football program is preparing for its first season in 3A Division I after moving up a classification for the 2026 season.
The Tigers, a five-time state championship program, had their bid for a fourth straight title end last season in the state semifinals against Wall. The program also enters the year after winning 10 consecutive district championships.
The realignment puts Gunter in new competition while also bringing back its Highway 289 matchup with Pottsboro. In non-district play, Gunter is set to host the Sulphur Bulldogs of Oklahoma, who are coming off consecutive state runner-up finishes.
The Tigers have not won a championship in 3A Division I, according to the report. Coaches and players described the move and last season’s finish as points of emphasis going into the new season.
On offense, junior Knox Gage returns after being responsible for 34 touchdowns last season. Sophomore Tristan Barton also gives the team another option at quarterback, and the roster includes returning skill players on both sides of the ball.
