Jackson captures Christmas Tournament title

It was another exciting end to the Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament Monday night.

In a matchup of rival schools, Jackson defeated Cape Girardeau Central 59-55 in the championship contest at the Show Me Center.

After the first half, Jackson led Central 27-18. But Central came out strong in the third quarter, falling just short in its comeback effort.

The Indians were led in scoring by Karson King with 21 points. The Tigers top scorer was Andre Statam with 28.

In other Monday matchups: Charleston won over Scott County Central; Notre Dame defeated Oran; and Advance prevailed against Oak Ridge.

The All-Tournament team included: Karson King, Jackson; Blake Reynolds, Jackson; Andre Statam, Cape Central; Jamal Cox, Cape Central; Delfincko Bogan, Charleston; LaRandis Banks, SCC; Quinn Poythress, ND; Chance Tenkhoff, Oran; Lane Below, Advance; and Ryan Below, Oak Ridge.

Attendance was up for the 2013 tournament. Over the four days, 19,189 were on hand. In 2012, 17,615 came out for the tournament.

Congratulations to Jackson on winning the tournament and to each of the teams who competed. The Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament is a fantastic event thanks to many people. From the coaches and players, to the referees, volunteers, Show Me Center staff and volunteers, it's a group effort each year. Thank you to all involved.

There's plenty of basketball left in the season. Watch semoball.com for the latest in high school sports.

To support your local school for the best fans in Southeast Missouri, remember to vote in the Semoball Awards fan vote at semoball.com/awards.