The Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament is a cherished tradition in Southeast Missouri, bringing together high school basketball teams from across the region for a festive and competitive event. In 2023, the tournament took place from December 26 to December 30 at the Show Me Center in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. This annual event not only showcases the athletic talents of young athletes but also fosters community spirit and pride. Fans from various schools filled the stands, creating an electric atmosphere that highlighted the importance of high school sports in the area.
Overview of the 2023 Tournament
The 2023 Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament featured 16 high school boys’ basketball teams competing in a single-elimination format. The teams were divided into four brackets, each aiming to advance through the rounds to reach the championship game. The tournament is known for its competitive nature, with local rivalries adding intensity to each matchup. The games were held over five days, culminating in the championship game on December 30.
Participating Teams
- Cape Central Tigers
- Jackson Indians
- Scott City Rams
- Notre Dame Bulldogs
- Woodland Cardinals
- Advance Hornets
- Kelly Hawks
- Chaffee Red Devils
- Charleston Bluejays
- Delta Bobcats
- Leopold Wildcats
- Meadow Heights Panthers
- Oran Eagles
- Bell City Cubs
- Oak Ridge Blue Jays
- Scott Central Braves
These teams represented a mix of public and private schools, each bringing their unique style and energy to the court. The diversity of teams added to the tournament’s appeal, offering fans a chance to see a wide range of playing styles and strategies.
Notable Games and Highlights
Throughout the tournament, several games stood out due to their intensity and the high level of play exhibited by the teams.
Opening Round
The opening round featured several closely contested games. One of the most thrilling matchups was between Scott City and Delta, where Scott City narrowly edged out Delta with a 66-65 victory in overtime. This game set the tone for the rest of the tournament, showcasing the competitive spirit of the teams involved.
Championship Game
The championship game on December 30 was a highly anticipated rematch between the Cape Central Tigers and the Jackson Indians. Cape Central emerged victorious with a commanding 75-48 win, securing the tournament title. TySeanDre’ Edwards led the Tigers with 20 points, while Jaydon Reynolds contributed 19 points. For the Indians, Cole Deck was the standout performer, scoring 19 points in the loss.
All-Tournament Team
Following the conclusion of the tournament, the All-Tournament Team was announced, recognizing the standout players for their exceptional performances throughout the event. The 2023 All-Tournament Team included
- Kole Deck (Jackson)
- Tyseandre’ Edwards (Cape Central)
- Mar’k Mills (Cape Central)
- Korbin Kinder (Woodland)
- Max Snider (Scott City)
- Brett Dohogne (Notre Dame)
- Kolton Johnson (Notre Dame)
- Nolan Fowler (Chaffee)
- Preston Campbell (Leopold)
- Ryan Jeffries (Delta)
Additionally, Scott City’s Kaden Lowery received the fan-voted MVP award, highlighting his significant impact on the tournament and his team’s performance.
Community Impact and Tradition
The Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament is more than just a basketball competition; it is a community event that brings together fans, families, and alumni to celebrate high school sports. The tournament has become a staple of the holiday season in Southeast Missouri, with many families making it an annual tradition to attend the games. The event not only provides entertainment but also supports local businesses and fosters a sense of community pride.
Local media coverage, including broadcasts and online updates, ensures that fans who cannot attend in person can still follow the action and support their teams. The tournament’s success is a testament to the dedication of the organizers, volunteers, and participants who work tirelessly to make it a memorable experience for all involved.
Looking Ahead
As the 2023 Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament concludes, attention turns to the future of the event. Plans are already underway for the 2024 tournament, with organizers aiming to build on the success of previous years. The goal is to continue providing a platform for high school athletes to showcase their talents while promoting sportsmanship and community engagement.
For fans and participants alike, the Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament remains a highlight of the holiday season, offering exciting basketball action and a chance to celebrate the spirit of competition and camaraderie. As the tournament continues to grow, it will undoubtedly remain a cherished tradition in Southeast Missouri for years to come.