Tournament of Champions

Dale’s Class 2A top-ranked Pirates came in third in the Tournament of Champions in Tulsa over the holidays. The Pirates bounced Nathan Hale, ranked 18th in Class 4A, by 25 points in the first round.

Looking back

2023 was quite a year, with triumphs, tragedies and, sometimes, humor. Here’s a look back at the events of the year. MIKE McCORMICK Staff Writer - In early January, a Stroud man faced six felony charges accusing him of setting wildfires in Lincoln County over a period of nearly a year.

Hoops at the break

The Dale girls and North Rock Creek boys finished up the 2023 portions of their schedules unbeaten, the Lady Pirates being 10-0 and ranked No. 1 in Class 2A and the Cougars going 8-0 and owning the No. 2 ranking in Class 4A. They will resume play on Jan.

High school hoops

Above, Bryce Cowns throws down a dunk for McLoud in the Redskins’ win over Prague. Photo/ Rick Hester Right, official Dewayne Gaines keeps a close eye on Chandler’s Jaydan Denson (2) as he goes after a loose ball Friday against Jones.

While the clock is stopped

Tournament Week

The Stroud Lady Tigers, the North Rock Creek boys and the Dale boys and girls harvested championships last week in the first high school basketball tournament week of the week of the year.

High school hoops

Above, Wellston’s Wylee Terrell (12) defends against Carney’s Ryan Townsend (20) at the Agra tournament on Friday last week. Photo/ Brian Blansett Right, Prague’s Joe Fixico channels the intensity on a layup against Stroud on Tuesday.

North Rock Creek signees