10 teams that could bring home the title
By Ryne Turke
THE FAVORITES
#1 Seed: Routt Catholic High School
The Rockets earned the top seed at Winchester with a resume that includes the New Berlin Thanksgiving Title and second place at the Waverly Holiday Tournament. Bryson Mossman is worth the price of admission, a standout scorer destined for great things. His supporting cast continues to improve, with Adam Abell and Brady Turner locking down the paint and Eli Olson and Eli Bryant generating points from beyond the arc. While the offense is making strides in the right direction, it’s the defense that’s responsible for the wins. The size of the Rockets has frustrated opponents, allowing just 38 points-per-game. They’re the favorites for a reason.
#2 Seed: West Central
West Central hasn’t skipped a beat, fresh off their IHSA State Tournament Championship. The Cougars won eight of their first nine games, finished fourth at the Waverly Tournament and have weapons across the board. Cam Sievers has been lights out as the Cougar’s floor general, Carson Brown is the best rebounder in the conference and Ryker Ford has become the #1 option on offense. The key to the Cougars may be Nick Hamilton, a three-level scorer who looks like a superstar. Does West Central have the talent to take home back-to-back Winchester Invitational titles? Absolutely.
#4 Seed: Calhoun
It’s been a hit-and-miss start for Calhoun, a team I predicted to be the best in the WIVC. The Warriors took some early losses to Greenfield Northwestern, West Central and Staunton, but have found their groove winning four of their last five games. Lane Eilerman’s sophomore season has been sensational, and Conner Longnecker continues to be a mismatch nightmare in the post. The Winchester Invitational could be what awakens this sleeping giant.
#5 Porta AC
The Bluejays may have the best resume heading into the Winchester Invitational Tournament. Porta AC has a 10-3 record that includes an eight-game win streak with a victory over powerhouse Illini Bluffs. Porta AC is always a contender at Winchester, this year will be no different.
IN THE HUNT
#3 Seed: Greenfield Northwestern
After a dominant performance winning the Spartan Classic, the Tigers hit a bump in the road at Waverly, getting bounced after two games. The Big 3 for GNW has been as good as advertised. Talon Albrecht is scoring 18 points-per-game, Wyatt Stuart is averaging a near double-double and Garrett Costello is filling up the box scores. GNW has something to prove at Winchester.
#6 Seed: Liberty
The Eagles may be the sleeper team of the tournament. Liberty has already picked up wins against Payson Seymour, Porta AC and Camp Point Central and showcase one of the top scorers in the area, Reed Sparrow. Led by former Jacksonville coach Dan Sparrow, this is a team that should be on everyone’s radar.
#7 Seed: Brown County
Brown County jumped out the gates strong, capturing the Beardstown Tournament title with a victory over West Central. They’ve kept that momentum rolling, thanks to an incredible sophomore class. Jackson McNeff’s breakout season has made the Hornets a legit contender and a team that should be feared in years to come.
#8 Seed: Triopia
Triopia kicked 2025 off with a solid victory over Pittsfield, potentially the start of a big second half for the Trojans. Caleb Carpenter is playing elite basketball, as the Trojan’s top scorer and defender. Avery Neathery continues to excel as the best freshman in the WIVC. A solid showing at Winchester would put Triopia amongst the top-tier teams in the conference.
WILD CARDS
#11 Seed: Carrollton
Love what I saw from Carrollton at the Waverly Holiday Tournament. When they’re clicking, the Hawks can run and score at will. Charlie Stumpf provides instant offense, Buddy Holmes is one of the top shooters in the conference and Carter Randolph is looking like a future star. Carrollton owns victories over Triopia, Griggsville-Perry and New Berlin … don’t overlook them.
#13 Seed: North Greene
With six wins in their last seven games, including a Waverly Holiday Tournament Consolation Title, the Spartans stock couldn’t be higher. Luke Farris continues to put up career numbers and Talan Harney has brought a spark to the lineup. Remember this team won a combined 16 games over the last three years. Things are finally coming together for Spartan Nation.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I always love my time at Winchester. Incredible hospitality and the perfect way to start the road to the postseason. Expect an electric environment, fast action and unfortunately terrible weather lol.
I’ll be up in the booth calling the action all week, hope to see you there.
