Monday night brought another busy slate of boys and girls basketball action across the region, with standout performances, close finishes, and a few teams starting to hit their stride as we inch closer to the heart of the season. Let’s get into the highlights.
Boys Basketball
Richland 52, Dexter 50
Richland pulled out a gritty win over Dexter in one of the night’s closest games. It was a back-and-forth battle, but the Rebels made just enough plays late to come out on top. Since dropping the championship game of the Oran Tournament to Bell City, Richland has avenged that loss to Bell City and now picked up a big win over a good Dexter team. It looks like the Rebels are rounding into form and quickly reestablishing themselves as one of the top small school teams in the area.
Caruthersville 72, Lake County (TN) 61
Caruthersville’s offense shined as they rolled past Lake County, pulling away in the second half. Coach Lamont Bell’s Tigers’ fast-paced attack continues to make them a dangerous team heading into the holidays.
Winona 46, Lesterville 44
In another nailbiter, Winona edged Lesterville in a two-point thriller. It wasn’t always pretty, but the Wildcats found a way to get it done.
Twin Rivers 80, Clearwater 35
Twin Rivers dominated from the opening tip, cruising to a lopsided win over Clearwater. The Royals showed off their depth, efficiency, and defense, locking things down for a comfortable victory.
Hayti 103, Holcomb 39
Hayti put up video game numbers, pouring in 103 points in a blowout win over Holcomb. This was a statement game for the Indians, who have been nearly unstoppable so far this season. With scoring threats everywhere, they’re proving to be one of the most explosive teams in the area.
Liberty Invitational Tournament
Eminence 56, Neelyville 49
Eminence knocked off Neelyville in a solid showing at the Liberty Invitational. Clutch play down the stretch made all the difference as Eminence secured the win and advanced. Neelyville wins the early season award for “tough luck loser,” as the Tigers fall to 1-7 on the season, with all seven of their losses being close games to very good teams.
Senath-Hornersville Christmas Tournament
Senath-Hornersville 78, Naylor 54
Senath-Hornersville flexed its muscles as the No. 2 seed, taking care of business against Naylor. The Lions’ offense looked sharp, and they showed why they’re one of the favorites in this year’s tournament.
Delta C-7 51, Armorel (AR) 48
Delta C-7 survived a thriller, holding off Armorel by just three points. Strong defense in the final minutes sealed the deal as the Chargers advance to the next round.
Oak Ridge 62, Crystal City 50
Oak Ridge came alive in the fourth quarter to pick up a much-needed win over Crystal City. Cohen Hahs had a monster game, dropping 26 points and leading the Blue Jays to victory. The fourth quarter had been a problem spot for Oak Ridge this season, but not on Monday night. First-year head coach Bryce Hahs praised his squad’s effort and defensive improvement, and it’s clear the Blue Jays are starting to turn a corner.
Girls Basketball
Delta 69, Cape Central 45
Delta bounced back in a big way after last week’s loss, rolling past Cape Central with a dominant win at the Show Me Center. Jade Berry was unstoppable, pouring in 25 points, while Grace Ancell added 19. Delta’s press defense overwhelmed the Tigers, and the Ladycats move to 5-1 on the season. Next up? A semifinal showdown with a very strong St. Vincent squad.
St. Vincent 58, Saxony Lutheran 28
St. Vincent’s defense stole the show as they dismantled Saxony Lutheran to move into the Holiday Classic semifinals. Brie Rubel led the charge with 16 points, while the Indians’ press caused turnovers and fastbreak opportunities all night long. Now riding a five-game win streak, St. Vincent looks every bit like a Class 2 state contender. Wednesday’s semifinal matchup with Delta should be one of the best girls’ basketball matchups so far this season.
Notre Dame 50, Chaffee 42
Notre Dame held off a fourth-quarter rally from Chaffee to grab a hard-fought home win. The Lady Bulldogs built a double-digit lead in the third quarter and held on down the stretch despite a strong effort from Bailey Robertson, who led Chaffee with 13 points. Chaffee’s talented underclassmen continue to shine, and they remain a team to watch as the season progresses.
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