Sikeston tops Dexter to finish third at SEMO Conference Tournament

Sikeston stands for a photo after winning the third-place game of the SEMO Conference Tournament with a 60-38 win over Dexter at Notre Dame Regional High School on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024.

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CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — In a game that felt like a long-awaited breakthrough, Sikeston clinched a decisive 56-38 victory over Dexter in the third-place game of the SEMO Conference Tournament at Notre Dame Regional High School on Friday, Dec. 6.

Executing their strategy precisely, the Lady Bulldogs (2-3) showcased their progress and determination, signaling a promising trajectory for the remainder of the season.

“We were focused and we stuck to the game plan and we were able to deliver a win,” said Sikeston coach Vaughn Shephard. “We’ve been waiting on this for two years to be on the winning side of the bracket and the girls played well and we are progressing as the season goes on. We will have a successful season after this tournament. The only thing we can do is go up from here.”

Sikeston’s victory was marked by a commanding start and a dominant finish.

The Lady Bulldogs jumped out to a 19-9 lead at the end of the first quarter, with Landri Hammontree setting the tone by scoring 11 of her game-high 28 points.

The middle quarters saw the Lady Bearcats (1-2) clawing back, ending each with a slight one-point advantage—10-9 in the second and 15-14 in the third.

However, the Lady Bulldogs closed the game with an 18-4 run, with Hammontree’s clutch free throws sealing the victory. 

“Everyone contributed to this win,” Shephard said. “Dexter is a very well-coached, good team, but we were just prepared for them.”

In addition to her scoring prowess, Hammontree contributed two assists, two rebounds, and one steal, underscoring her all-around impact on the game.

Sikeston’s victory was a team effort as Marlie Crook also emerged as a significant contributor, finishing with 15 points, six rebounds, five steals and three blocks.

Her height and defensive abilities posed a challenge that Dexter could not counter.

Kennedi Sims also delivered an impressive stat line, showing off her versatility with nine points, eight assists, eight steals, and six rebounds.

Her ability to influence multiple facets of the game highlights her importance to the team’s success.

“I would like to thank my coaching staff, Adam Winkler, and Garrett Hanlin,” Shephard said. “These guys do an awesome job of scouting and preparing for the games to come.

“They definitely helped us prepare for this game and we were able to get the win,” he continued. “I couldn’t do this without them. They are very good coaches, and I am blessed to have them by my side.”

Additional contributions came from Faith Calvin, who added four points, four rebounds, and one steal; Keyanna Jackson, with four rebounds and two points; Jomerrah Montjoy, with four rebounds, two steals, and one assist; and Kira Pace, who chipped in with two rebounds and one assist.

‘[Jackson] is a new and young player who has stepped up as a freshman,” Shephard said. “We gave her an assignment to do and she delivered. She is learning, a hard worker and she is a great asset to our team. [Pace] is also new to the team. She’s very coachable and a hard worker and she also played a big part in this win.”

Sikeston returns to action against Chaffee (2-0) in the Lady Devil Invitational, while Dexter hosts New Madrid County Central (1-0) on Monday, Dec. 9. 

SIKESTON 60, DEXTER 38

Dexter (38) — Kate Nichols 14, Febe Worley 14, Kenady Krapf 9, Brooklyn Goodman 3. FG: 15. FT: 4-11. F: 15. (3-pointers: Krapf 3, Goodman 1. Fouled out: None.)

Sikeston (60) — Landri Hammontree 26, Marlie Crook 15, Kennedi Sims 9, Keyenna Jackson 4, Faith Calvin 2. FG: 21. Ft: 13-22. F: 18. (3-pointers: Hammontree 1. Fouled out: None.)