In the heart of the holiday season, Missouri's high school basketball scene is buzzing with excitement as numerous tournaments showcase top-tier talent. The rankings have seen significant shifts, revealing new contenders and highlighting dominant performances. With several teams maintaining impressive winning streaks and others making their debut in the top 25, the landscape of girls' high school basketball in Missouri has become increasingly competitive. Notably, Incarnate Word continues its unparalleled dominance, inching closer to an astounding 140 consecutive victories. Meanwhile, other teams like Parkway West and Francis Howell are off to promising starts, while tournaments such as the Pink & White Classic promise thrilling matchups ahead.
The Visitation Academy Tournament Kicks Off a Season of Thrills
In the crisp winter air, the Visitation Academy Tournament set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable season. On December 21st, the Red Knights resumed play after a nine-day break, dominating Nerinx Hall with an 86-37 victory. Four players scored in double digits, led by Nevaeh Lucious, who netted 18 points. Meanwhile, the Lady Lions secured a win over Cape Girardeau Notre Dame on the same day, setting up a rematch against Hickman when the tournament resumes on December 26th. Nyla Scales was instrumental, scoring 16 points in the victory.
Across town, the Cougars edged out Hickman in a nail-biter, winning 60-58. Jordan Spiesier and Kennedy Stowers were key contributors, scoring 26 and 14 points respectively. This close contest underscores the competitiveness of the state's top teams. Further north, the Lady Panthers enjoyed a decisive 78-66 win over St. Joseph Benton, with Addison Bjorn leading the charge with 26 points. They will face Blue Valley (Kansas) in the 810 Varsity Showcase on January 4th.
The Central Missouri Activities Conference opener saw the Lady Bruins dominate Sedalia Smith-Cotton, winning 77-23. Rock Bridge's relentless defense held the opposition to just nine points in the first quarter, setting the tone for their eventual 44-point margin of victory. The team will next compete in the Tampa Bay Christmas Invitational from December 27th to 30th. Meanwhile, the Lady Vikings, fresh off an 11-0 start last year, are currently undefeated at 7-0, with six players averaging at least six points per game.
A New Era of Competition Emerges in Springfield
In the vibrant city of Springfield, the 16-team Pink & White Classic is poised to feature some of the most exciting games of the season. Teams like the Lady Chiefs, who have gone 2-1 in two tournaments, will face tough competition starting December 27th. The Lady Hornets, boasting their best start since 2008-09, open the classic against Sarcoxie. Fair Grove, the Class 3 state champions, also enters the tournament, despite losses to higher-class opponents. The Tigers, seeded third in the Pink bracket, have yet to concede more than 24 points in any game this season, showcasing their defensive prowess.
Other notable entries include Marshfield's Lady Blue Jays, who enter on a five-game winning streak, and Nixa, fresh from a successful Florida trip where they went 2-1 in the KSA Tournament. The Angels, who closed out the first part of the season with a win over Ursuline Academy, will face Parkway South in the SJA/Principia Tournament on December 28th. Piper Mooney's 16-point performance was pivotal in that victory. The Lady Eagles, meanwhile, have scored 60 or more points in five of their six games, setting the stage for their matchup against Hazelwood East in the Rolla Holiday Tournament on December 26th.
From a journalist's perspective, these early-season tournaments offer a glimpse into the depth and quality of Missouri's high school basketball. The emergence of new talent and the resilience of established programs create a compelling narrative. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how these teams evolve and which ones can maintain their momentum through the playoffs. The holiday tournaments not only highlight individual achievements but also underscore the collective strength of Missouri's high school basketball community.