Both Cordell High School basketball teams made a statement at the Corn Bible Academy Tournament, held December 4-6, by finishing as runners-up in a fiercely competitive field. The Lady Blue Devils and the Blue Devils boys’ squad each showcased grit, determination, and teamwork, securing second place and leaving fans and coaches proud of their efforts.
The Cordell girls’ team battled to the championship game, where they came up just short in a hard-fought 43–46 contest against Hollis. Head coach Colby Love praised his team’s resilience and progress: “Our girls left everything they had on the floor at the CBA Tournament. We came up just short in the championship, falling 43–46 to Hollis, but I couldn’t be prouder of their fight.We had two players earnAll-Tournament honors, Junior Calliy Walker and Freshman McKinley Moore, both of whom had a fantastic weekend. We’re still a very young team, and we made some young mistakes, but we grew a lot and showed what we’re capable of. This group is special, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.”
The Lady Blue Devils’ journey to the finals was marked by teamwork and immense effort, signaling big things ahead for this talented and developing squad.
On the boys’ side, Cordell reached the tournament final for the first time in nine years, proof of the program’s growth and the players’ dedication. Head coach JJ Williams credited the team’s unity and perseverance: “We’re extremely proud of our boys and the effort they put in this weekend. Although we came up a little short of our ultimate goal, we grew tremendously as a team. We faced plenty of adversity, and the players were challenged to adapt, take on new responsibilities, and step into roles they may not have been comfortable with yet. Watching them rise to the occasion, succeed in situations they had never experienced before, and battle their way through tough moments speaks volumes about their heart, determination, and desire to improve every singlegame.”
Williams highlighted the key contributions of Michael Hileman and Raygan Wehunt, both named to the All-Tournament Team. Hileman, Cordell’s leading scorer, despite being the target of every opposing defense, never backed down. Even when teams tried to limit him, he delivered in the moments that mattered and proved his leadership extends far beyond scoring. Wehunt impressed by reaching double digits in all three games and delivering in defining moments, including pivotal free throws and late-game shots that propelled Cordell into the championship. Williams stated, “Both players were very deserving of All-Tournament Team honors, and it’s great to see opposing coaches recognize their impact.”
Williams added, “Every player contributed to our success. In Friday’s semifinal win over CBA, Trace Lloyd, Dacks Neeley, and Kinser Todd were tremendous on both ends of the floor, helping us rally from behind and secure the victory. The stat sheet doesn’t capture all the grit and toughness our boys displayed, but this weekend proved that we are continuing to grow, learn, and move in the right direction as the season progresses.”
“This tournament was an important step for us and a valuable experience as we prepare for the playoffs in February,” Williams added. “It was truly a team effort, and our boys worked hard every day to prepare. Our fans played a major role as well; their energy and support were felt on the court, and it fueled our players throughout the tournament.”
With both the girls’ and boys’ teams earning second place and multiple All-Tournament honors, Cordell basketball has much to celebrate as the season continues. Both squads demonstrated they have what it takes to compete at a high level, and their future looks bright. Go Blue!