Missouri’s championship season is hitting full throttle, and the latest episode of The Starting Lineup dives deep into the biggest storylines across high school and college sports. From the ice to the hardwood, teams across the state are battling for titles, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. One of the biggest matchups on the horizon features Missouri State Hockey, fresh off a dominant 4–0 win and preparing to face the No. 1 seed in St. Louis. It’s a tough challenge, especially with programs like Drury Hockey, a Division I squad stacked with Canadian talent, already proving just how competitive the field has become.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation and in-depth analysis here:

On the basketball side, the state tournament picture continues to take shape. In Classes 1 through 3, teams like Maryville are turning heads with young talent and impressive tournament runs, while Tipton continues its winning tradition after capturing another state championship. One of the most fascinating stories comes from Principia, whose girls’ basketball team features a diverse international roster and has surged into the state finals under coach Jay Blossom after a remarkable turnaround season.

The conversation also turns to some of the state’s powerhouse programs and shifting dynamics across Missouri sports. Longtime observers note the decline of traditional powers like Jefferson City, partly due to the rise of new schools such as Capital High and increased talent migration to nearby districts. Meanwhile, the episode pays tribute to legendary coach Pete Adkins, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday and remains remembered for leading one of the most mentally tough teams in Missouri history, including a remarkable 73-game winning streak.

Looking ahead, several championship matchups promise serious drama. In girls’ basketball, Kickapoo prepares for the speed and scoring of Lee’s Summit West, while Incarnate Word remains a perennial powerhouse despite its historic 140-game win streak recently coming to an end. In Class 5 and Class 4 boys’ action, the field is wide open, with Sikeston emerging as a strong contender and Rogersville poised for a potential semifinal clash with Vashon — a matchup many fans have been waiting all year to see.