2023 Boys Basketball Finalists
Cam Williams
Cape Central
Williams was a key piece in the Tigers' 26-3 season that ended in the Class 5 District 1 Championship game. Williams was a force on both ends of the floor as he impacted shots on the defensive end and was a tough cover in the post on offense. The senior will leave a void on a Tigers roster that is sure to be motivated heading into 2023-24.
Jadis Jones
New Madrid County Central
With two Semoball Boys’ Basketball Player of the Year Awards already under his belt, Jones is looking to make history with a three-peat win this year. His list of accomplishments speaks for itself. As the Class 3 Player of the Year, he led the New Madrid County Central Eagles to a state championship, earning all-state, all-conference and all-district honors. Jones’ stats are equally impressive, he shot 64 percent from the field with an average of 23.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 3.3 steals and 1.2 blocks per game.
Rico Coleman
Charleston
Coleman was a key player in leading the Charleston Bluejays, who were ranked as the top team in Class 3 for much of the season. Coleman’s impressive performance includes an average of 15.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 2.2 steals and 0.9 blocks per game.
PJ Farmer
Charleston
A rising star who helped led the Bluejays to a 22-7 overall record this past season. Farmer is a highly sought-after prospect, receiving offers from several big-time Division 1 programs. He was a team leader and difference-maker, averaging a team-high 17.8 points and 5.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 4.2 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game.
Dontrez Williams
Sikeston
The skilled junior had a breakthrough season, leading the Bulldogs to a 22-8 overall record and the MSHSAA Class 5, District 1 Championship. Williams played a crucial role in the team’s success, averaging an impressive 20.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.9 steals per game while shooting 54 percent from the field. He was a key player in Sikeston’s upset victory over top-ranked Cape Central in the district tournament, leading the team to their first title since 2018.
BJ Williamson
New Madrid County Central
The gifted junior had a phenomenal season and was a key player in leading New Madrid County Central to a state title. He proved to be al all-around star, earning all-state, all-conference and all-district honors. Williamson’s season was a redemption tour, and he rose to the occasion with an average of 19.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 2.6 steals and 0.8 blocks per game.
Clayton Ernst
Jackson
The senior was a steady and consistent piece for the Indians on their way to a 26-11 season that saw them finish fourth in the Class 6 state tournament. Ernst's ability to rebound and work in the post made him a threat as well as his ability defensively. Ernst will certainly be missed by the Indians as they look to repeat the deep run they had this season.
Cole Nichols
Dexter
Nichols finished as Dexter High’s all-time leading scorer and led the Bearcats to their first district title in boys basketball since 2004 earlier this year. He also was an all-state, all-district and all-SEMO Conference selection.
Luke Barnes
Cooter
The school's all-time leading scorer and two-time Tri-County Conference Player of the Year, averaged 21 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two blocks per game. The 6-foot-4 athlete shot 68 percent from the field and 58 percent from the free throw line in Cooter's 26-4 season, which ended in a 43-46 loss in overtime in the MSHSAA Class 2 Quarterfinal to Principia. In addition to making the All-Conference team, Barnes was awarded All Class 2, District 1 and Class 2 All-State honors this year.
Isaiah Rodgers
Caruthersville
Caruthersville senior was named the Bootheel Conference Player of the Year after averaging 18 points per game in the regular season and 26.3 points per game during the Tigers' district tournament. Rodgers led the team to 16-5 season which ended in the MSHSAA Class 3, District 1 Championship to New Madrid County Central. He averaged 10 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game, and he had a double double in all but five games. Rodgers shot 50 percent from the field and 45 percent from beyond the arc. With 409 total points this season, Rodgers was awarded All Class 3 District 1 and Class 3 All-State honors.