It’s wide open this season, that’s for sure.
Nixa has 3 seniors who are D2, though as mentioned one is hurt but supposed to be ready for the season. Plus at least two other younger players who will likely play college ball. That’s basically the starting lineup. The talent is there……
Republic has Bekemeier plus sophomore-to-be big Flynn who impressed the hell out of me the times I saw her play, plus one the best coaches in the area. They lost a lot to graduation though so they have holes to patch. But they have plenty of players to patch those holes and Flood will coach ‘em up as always
CJ lacks depth but their starters are good and they too are well coached. Team speed may be an issue.
Ozark has a new coach but the talent is there, just not as much as Nixa and maybe Republic. They need the PG to be healthy though. Putt will have some big games. They need some of the other seniors to live up to their potential.
Willard lost 4 starters but they have at least two juniors to be that will step up and a good senior class plus a great coach. They, like Nixa, will lack size, but JJ will get the most out of that group as always
The above 5 teams are the top tier.
Carthage has Yates but lost Fullerton and at least one other big girl. Depth will be an issue.
Webb City will be solid, but not great, with some returning players and the 6’4 freshman coming in
Joplin has a couple of talented big girls but they are still a rebuilding team.
Branson is scrappy but during and since the Priscilla Williams years, lack scorers (other than PW of course) or a true floor general.
Neosho lost their leading scorer and are a grab bag for this season.
Any of the top five could win it.
The other five don’t have enough.
