Basketball fever continues as both the ACAC and NECC tournaments heat up with semifinal action tonight. Teams are not only battling for a spot in the finals but also for the chance to etch their names in conference history. Here’s a breakdown of what’s at stake and what to watch in these thrilling matchups.
ACAC Tournament: Semifinals Preview
Southern Wells Hosts Girls’ and Boys’ Semifinals
The 51st ACAC girls’ basketball tournament resumes with Southern Wells (14-4) hosting Heritage (1-14). Southern Wells secured a spot in the semifinals after a dominant 18-4 third quarter helped them edge out Adams Central, 46-41, with notable contributions from Erika Beavans and Collena Reeves. The Raiders’ size will likely overwhelm the rebuilding Patriots, who they defeated 55-19 earlier this season.
On the boys’ side, Southern Wells will feature a rematch of last year’s title game as Adams Central (7-3), led by senior Trace Maller, takes on Heritage (6-3). Adams Central, seeking their first-ever three-peat, breezed past Southern Wells in their opener with a commanding 78-30 win. Heritage, known for their aggressive man-to-man defense, will rely on senior Landon Lybarger’s scoring to keep the Jets in check.
Bluffton Hosts Additional Semifinals
Bluffton (15-2) hosts the reigning four-time girls’ champions Jay County (8-9). While Jay County is in a rebuilding year, Bluffton, led by senior Isabella Stout’s 23 points on Tuesday, is having a historic season. The Lady Tigers, who secured the outright ACAC regular season title, are hungry for their first conference tournament championship in program history.
The boys’ semifinal pits Jay County (6-4) against Woodlan (6-6). Jay County, bolstered by their size and athleticism, dismantled South Adams 61-14 on Tuesday, while Woodlan’s stifling defense upset Bluffton 45-29. Both teams have storied tournament histories, with Woodlan chasing their first title since 2020 and Jay County last winning in 2022.
NECC Tournament: Semifinals Heating Up
Eastside Hosts Key Girls’ and Boys’ Matchups
The girls’ semifinal features a heated rivalry as Eastside (18-1) hosts Central Noble (11-6). Eastside, led by Indiana Tech commit Sydnee Kessler, relies on an aggressive full-court press and lethal perimeter offense. However, Central Noble, led by senior Kierra Bolen, boasts depth and versatility that could trouble the Blazers. These teams have clashed six times over the past two seasons, with Eastside winning last year’s NECC tournament but Central Noble ending their season in sectionals.
The boys’ contest sees Eastside (3-8) taking on Garrett (12-2). Garrett, off to their best start since 2003-04, is led by Carter Coffman, who is averaging 23.5 points per game in the tournament. Meanwhile, Central Noble enters as the underdog after upsetting Lakeland 61-52, thanks to standout performances from Colt Kirkpatrick, Jayden Tilley, and Redick Zolman.
Fairfield Hosts Additional Semifinals
Fairfield (13-3) welcomes Westview (10-8) in the girls’ semifinal. Fairfield narrowly defeated Fremont 41-38 on Wednesday, while Westview, led by Karis Weinberg’s 15 points, edged Prairie Heights 40-35. Fairfield seeks their first title since their 2023 state championship season, while Westview hasn’t reached the finals since 2016.
On the boys’ side, Westview (6-4) faces Churubusco (4-7). Churubusco pulled off a stunning upset over Fairfield, 43-38, on Wednesday. Westview, powered by Austin Schlabach’s 17 points per game, seeks to reclaim their championship glory after a six-year drought.
What’s at Stake?
In the ACAC, Southern Wells girls and Adams Central boys look to make history with unprecedented achievements, while Bluffton girls aim for their first-ever conference tournament title. In the NECC, Eastside girls hope to repeat as champions, and Garrett boys aim to capitalize on their best start in decades.
Tip-offs for girls’ games are scheduled for 6:00 PM, with boys’ games to follow. As the semifinals unfold, fans are in for an exciting night of high-stakes basketball.