Storylines To Follow This Season

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With the new season approaching, what are some storylines to track? How will classifications be adjusted? Who will be the teams that surprise? Which players will take their game to the next level?&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Classifications</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The only notable program with a possibility to change classes is John Burroughs. The school has an enrollment of over 600+ kids and their success factor as a private school could propel them to Class 6. If there is no change, look out for Cardinal Ritter. The Bombers and Lions were both great last season, however, the Lions brought in some nice young talent. Both programs graduated key contributors. One of the toughest districts in the state last season was Class 6 District 4. Francis Howell, Fort Zumwalt West, and Troy all had great seasons. Expect for all to contend once again this season. Troy is a real sleeper because of the youth their team has. They'll all be a year older and are experienced at the guard spots. A battle tested team with a high ceiling.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Surprise Teams</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Hickman is a team who did well last season but could take yet another step forward. They have a strong senior class and played well during the month of June. Chemistry is a key factor and something they have going for them. [player_tooltip player_id='303297' first='Jayla' last='Griffith'] and [player_tooltip player_id='453247' first='Sy'Rae' last='Stemmons'] are one of the better duos in Missouri.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>St. Joseph's provides some intrigue heading into the new season. Jacob Yorg takes over as their head coach after building the Burroughs program to a championship level. He has college experience and knows what it takes. There's still pieces in place from last season's team as well. Expect a strong season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Staley wouldn't be a surprise team in terms of being talented and winning tons of games, however, contending for a state championship this early could be. This team is built for the 2026 season when their entire core are seniors and juniors. With that being said, this season provides an opportunity to get ahead of schedule. They are serious contenders.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Centralia looks like a team who could turn around and win state this season. [player_tooltip player_id='460885' first='Braylin' last='Brunkhorst'] is a consistent player and the heart of this team. [player_tooltip player_id='803053' first='Ryenn' last='Gordon'] is an elite talent. A 2027 PG who deserves national attention from a recruiting standpoint. Add in the fact that they added a freshman or two who will play and the ingredients for a great season are all there.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Players on the Rise</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='730180' first='Sydney' last='Bode'] is a major presence on Maruqette who won plenty last season. She has great size at 6'3 and works hard on the glass. An interior scorer that draws the defense. Her potential should be on full display as a senior.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='411084' first='Addie' last='Kane'] is a dynamic scorer for Westminster. The Wildcats are a program that always has a top player in a prominent role. She is exactly that. A three level scorer that plays with composure and poise. College offers have come in. She deserves more attention with the top wings in 2025.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='626280' first='Akaela' last='Caquelin'] will have to take on a larger scoring role for Rolla. After graduating a number of key players she's the top returner. A 5'6 combo guard that can do everything on the floor. Her game is complete. One of the best 2025 prospects in Mid-Missouri.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Doniphan was one of the top stories during last season. A team who took an undefeated record into the playoffs. You wouldn't expect a freshman to be in the middle of this success, however, [player_tooltip player_id='849017' first='Carsyn' last='Hagood'] is an exception. Her shooting helped make this team dynamic. Expect for a big jump in production during her second season&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='854613' first='E'Marrhia' last='Johnson'] is a small school prospect that deserves all the attention. She was a major reason for the great season Kennett had last year. A rugged player that brings pure athletic ability and slashing to the floor. She plays both ends. A total competitor. Johnson is someone that will be well known in and around SEMO.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->