Vashon, Eureka Win 4A Titles; New Madrid, Nixa Win 3A

Vahson won the Class 4A boys basketball title over the weekend, beating DeSmet in a rematch of last years championship game. It was the seventh title for Vashon, and the 6th under coach Floyd Irons. Vashon avenged last year’s lost to the Spartans in the title game, and finished the year 27-2. Sophomore Jimmy McKinney led the Wolverines to the championship, with 19 points and 7 rebounds, and two key baskets down the stretch. Lorenzo Gordon had 16 points. For DeSmet (26-6), senior Joe Ries scored 21 points and grabbed 15 rebounds.Eureka beat Poplar Bluff for the 4A girls title, 52-36. Junior point guard Tiffany Stewart had 24 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists for the Wildcats, who won their first state title with a 28-3 record.In Class 3A, New Madrid County Central won the boys crown for the second time, beating Park Hill South 68-55. South was forced to play without its top player, Tommy Hottovy, who sprained his ankle in the morning practice before the game. Ronland Hanson was spectacular for the Eagles, scoring 29 points, and grabbing 16 rebounds. Nixa won the girls’ 3A title, beating Savannah 67-51. Four players scored in double figures for the Eagles, including 15 points for Terianne Wolford, who will play for Missouri next year. Nixa finished the season 31-1.