Local boys teams hold strong in latest Missouri high school basketball rankings

With just one month remaining in the regular season, high school basketball in Missouri is entering the home stretch, as teams gear up for district play and beyond, hoping to capture a state title.

Thanks to the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association, we have a clearer picture of which teams are on the right track. Let’s take a look at where our local squads stand in the latest rankings.

The Bishop LeBlond Golden Eagles continue to soar, securing the No. 5 spot in Class 3. Coming off a victory over Odessa in the Richmond Winter Classic, the Golden Eagles boast an impressive 17-1 record. Their only loss of the season came on December 7th against Mid-Buchanan, but since then, they’ve rattled off 15 straight wins.

LeBlond has been dominant at home, holding a perfect 8-0 record while averaging 59 points per game and allowing just 45 on defense. Their next home contest is set for February 7th against Savannah.

Just two spots below, the East Buchanan Bulldogs check in at No. 7 in Class 3. They enter the week riding a three-game winning streak, including a recent victory over Lathrop, pushing their record to 12-5.

All five of East Buchanan’s losses have come either against higher-class teams or out-of-state opponents. Like LeBlond, the Bulldogs have protected their home court all season, remaining unbeaten. They average 64 points per game while surrendering just 48. Currently, they are competing in the Hamilton Invitational Tournament.

In Class 4, the Benton Cardinals remain among the state’s elite, sitting at No. 3 in the latest rankings. They enter the week following a tough two-point loss to Blue Valley Northwest (KS), marking their first time this season dropping back-to-back games.

Before their recent skid, Benton had surged to a 12-1 record. However, the absence of starting point guard Lincoln Goodwin due to injury has slightly hampered their momentum. So far this season, they’ve been one of the toughest defensive teams in the area, allowing just 44 points per game while scoring an average of 61.