The Marmaton Valley High School Wildcats clinched the championship at the Yates Center High School Mid-Season Classic Tournament, defeating St. Paul with a decisive score of 64-46. This victory marks a significant boost for the Wildcats as they prepare to enter the second half of their Three Rivers League season.
In the championship game held on March 15, 2024, the Wildcats turned a 14-10 second-quarter deficit into a commanding 35-12 lead, largely thanks to a series of three-point shots. Garrett Morrison led the charge with three successful shots from beyond the arc, while Brevyn Campbell contributed one as the team demonstrated a balanced scoring approach throughout the match.
Marmaton Valley maintained a steady lead, ending the third quarter at 43-34. The fourth quarter saw Tyler Lord emerge as a key player, scoring seven of his game-high 17 points during this crucial stretch. Morrison finished the game with 15 points, while Ethan Lawson and Campbell added 12 and 11 points, respectively.
Despite a strong performance from St. Paul, which included nine three-pointers as a team, the Wildcats’ defense proved too formidable. Kingston McRay led St. Paul with 16 points, supported by Brec Norris with 11 points.
The Wildcats concluded the round-robin tournament with a perfect record of 3-0, enhancing their overall season record to 7-7. This victory not only boosts team morale but also sets a positive trajectory as they resume regular-season play.
In the girls’ game that preceded the boys’ final, St. Paul achieved a dominant 43-13 victory over Marmaton Valley. After establishing a 9-0 lead in the first quarter and a commanding 27-5 advantage at halftime, St. Paul never looked back. Kaydra Mathis led the scoring for St. Paul with 15 points, while Kyndahl Venneman and Brittany Deegan contributed 14 and 12 points, respectively. Andie Carr was the top scorer for the Wildcats, finishing with nine points.
The Marmaton Valley Wildcats are set to return to Yates Center on Tuesday to continue their regular season, followed by an away game against Southeast-Cherokee on Friday. The momentum from this tournament victory could prove pivotal as the Wildcats aim to improve their standing in the league.
