Christmas tournament

The holiday season is full of activities. And if you're a high school basketball fan, there's no better time to catch a few games than at the Show Me Center in late December.

Last night the annual Kelso Supply Holiday Classic girls basketball tournament wrapped up. After celebrating Christmas this weekend, basketball returns to the Show Me Center on Monday with the start of the 67th annual Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament for the area high school boys teams.

Sixteen squads will compete in this year's tournament: Charleston, Notre Dame, Scott County Central, Cape Girardeau Central High School, Jackson, Leopold, Advance, Scott City, Chaffee, Delta, Oak Ridge, Oran, Bell City, Woodland, Kelly and Meadow Heights.

One change to this year's tournament is the schedule. First-round and quarterfinal games will be played Monday and Tuesday. After a day off Wednesday, the tournament continues with the semifinals on Thursday and finals on Friday.

In past years the tournament has featured some of the best basketball competition in the area, though the show of sportsmanship is ultimately the most important factor.

Last year the tournament attracted 20,484 fans to the Show Me Center over the four-day period. For many the tournament is more than just watching great basketball. It's an opportunity to spend time with family and friends in a fun and festive atmosphere.

A new feature for this year's tournament is the webcast for the final day of competition. We know many of you have family and friends living at a distance who would like to check out the competition. This year these fans can watch and comment by going to www.semissourian.com or www.semoball.com. Our friends at KZIM/ESPN 1220 will provide audio color commentary and analysis. The webcast will be available to watch for a couple of weeks following the final day's contest as well.

Of course nothing beats being inside the Show Me Center, participating in the contests and experiencing the fun atmosphere, and we encourage you to do just that.

Thanks to all the tournament's organizers and referees. The Southeast Missourian is proud to be a part of this great event, and we look forward to seeing you courtside this week.