As the high school basketball postseason approaches, there is a great deal of anticipation surrounding the upcoming events. Classes 1-3 are set to begin district play on Monday, and we are prepared with comprehensive information regarding the brackets, leading teams, key players, and our predictions for each local district.
For the most up-to-date times and brackets throughout the postseason, it is advisable to consult MSHSAA.org for the latest updates.
The following is an overview of the girls’ basketball districts in the Springfield area:
Class 3
Top-Ranked Team: El Dorado Springs
The competition for the leading position in Class 3 has been intense, with El Dorado Springs and Fair Grove contending for the top spot throughout the season. Nevertheless, the Lady Bulldogs have recently surged ahead, owing to their remarkable three-loss season. Following a recent triumph over the Lady Eagles, they are poised for a strong performance in the postseason.
District 10 at Seymour
– November 19
– No. 4 Seymour vs. No. 5 Houston
– No. 3 Willow Springs vs. No. 6 Conway
– February 21
– No. 1 Licking vs. 4/5
– No. 2 Mountain View vs. 3/6
– February 23
– Championship at 6 p.m.
Team to Beat: Licking
Licking enters this district as the favourite, with an impressive record of 20 victories. Led by senior figure Hannah Medlock and standout junior Allie Hock, they unquestionably pose a formidable challenge.
Next Best: Mountain View
Despite being the second seed, Mountain View has exhibited outstanding performance since late January, securing notable triumphs over teams such as Branson and Willow Springs.
District 11 at Catholic
– February 19
– No. 4 Catholic vs. No. 5 Forsyth
– No. 3 Sparta vs. No. 6 Pleasant Hope
– February 21
– No. 1 Fair Grove vs. 4/5
– No. 2 Strafford vs. 3/6
– February 23
– Championship at 6 p.m.
Team to Beat: Fair Grove
The reigning Class 3 state champion appears to be primed for another successful postseason campaign. Possessing a strong lineup, they are certainly a team to watch out for.
Next Best: Strafford
Underestimating Strafford would be imprudent, as they have achieved noteworthy victories. Elsie Larsen and senior Lauren Jones lead a team that is fully capable of causing an upset.
Sleeper: Sparta
With victories against formidable opponents, Sparta is a team with the potential to make a significant impact in this district.
District 12 at Lamar
– February 19
– No. 4 Lamar vs. Southwest (Washburn)
– February 21
– No. 1 Clever vs. 4/5
– No. 2 Diamond vs. No. 3 Sarcoxie
– February 23
– Championship at 6 p.m.
Team to Beat: Diamond
Diamond has been on an impressive winning streak, with only one defeat since the beginning of 2024. Led by Grace Frazier, they represent a formidable force in this district.
Next Best: Clever
The Lady Jays have secured a victory over Diamond this year and have demonstrated their capabilities against tough competition.
District 13 at Adrian
– February 19
– No. 4 Butler vs. No. 5 Sherwood
– February 21
– No. 1 El Dorado Springs vs. 4/5
– No. 2 Adrian vs. No. 3 Stockton
– February 23
– Championship at 6 p.m.
Team to Beat: El Dorado Springs
With an impressive string of victories, including a notable win over Fair Grove, the Lady Bulldogs are the team to watch in this district.
Next Best: Adrian
The Blackhawks have experienced fluctuations in their performance this year, but their victory over Windsor exemplifies their capacity to cause an upset.
In conclusion, the girls’ basketball Class 3 districts in Springfield are shaping up to be an exhilarating battleground for some of the top teams in the area. With the postseason on the horizon, the stage is set for an action-packed exhibition of talent and determination. Therefore, prepare for an enthralling display of basketball.