Hot Starts: Week 1

Week One of the high school basketball seasaon is in the books, and Southwest Missouri wasted zero time reminding everyone why this region produces some of the most competitive hoops in the state. With many teams starting play this week, here are a few players that set the tone early.

Abel Hume (Sparta High School) In the first game of his Sophomore year, Abel exploded for a career high of 39 points and 9 rebounds versus Springfield Catholic Tuesday night. Sparta's young point guard gave us a glimpe of his potiential in game one of the 2025 season.

Kylan Pickren (Ozark High School) The 6'5 Junior is a walking bucket, and he picked up where he left off last year as being one of the area's top offensive talents. He had a career high 35 points and 8 rebounds versus West Plains in the first game of his 2025 season.

Brennen Meloy (Bunker High School) The 6'3 Junior showcased his speed and athleticism in Saturday's game versus Eminence. Brennen threw down a monster dunk and hit a logo 3 in the first half to set the tone. He finished with 35 points and received the top performer at the 2025 Current River Challenge.

Congratulations to the Fordland Eagles (Verona Tournament) and the Greenwood Lady Jays (Fair Play Tournament) for starting off the year strong by winning their tournaments this week.

Southwest Missouri basketball is loaded this season. The combination of high-level guards, physical forwards, and smart role players makes this one of the deepest fields we've had in years. If Week One is any indication of this season, this winter is going to be one for the record books.