Coming off a largely forgettable opening portion to the season, the Wright City girls basketball team provided a big memory in starting up the 2026 portion of the team’s schedule on Wednesday.
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Coming off a largely forgettable opening portion to the season, the Wright City girls basketball team provided a big memory in starting up the 2026 portion of the team’s schedule on Wednesday.
Playing for the first time since mid-December to open play in its home tournament, the Wildcats knocked off previously unbeaten St. Clair 49-40 in a well-rounded effort, according to coach Dustin Elledge.
“Tonight was a great team win,” Elledge said. “The girls came out with good energy and positivity. They were ready to get back in action after our break.”
Wright City (2-7) not only welcomed in the new year but also welcomed a complete roster contingent after some early-season injuries.
The game gave Elledge a chance to see his team’s full capabilities and the Wildcats didn’t disappoint.
After a slow start, Wright City took the 23-18 halftime lead on St. Clair (7-1), a team that entered the game averaging 58.5 points per game. Lilah Hinson, who averages more than 19 points a game, was held to 17, while Emma Talleur, who was averaging 13.7, tallied eight.
Elledge said the game allowed the Wildcats to show the team’s true calling card – its defense.
“It was nice being at full strength,” Elledge said. “We really got back to our basics. We worked well in our transition game, and we were able to keep solid defensive efforts all night.”
Wright City led the game 35-31 at the end of the third quarter before putting the contest away.
Senior guard Shiriah McRoberts led the way with 19 points while junior forward Olivia Wilson added 10 points and junior guard Ada Ferrell contributed eight.
“This game tonight shows what we are capable of doing when we get everything together,” Elledge said. “Beating a solid St. Clair team, who came in undefeated and who started to get votes in the last Missouri Basketball Coaches Association (MBCA) polls, is a big confidence boost for our team.”
Wright City, which had never beaten St. Clair in games dating back to the 2010-11 season, now gets the chance to not only win its tournament but also get a little payback should the team do so.
At 5 p.m. on Friday, Wright City will take on Veritas Christian (5-5) with the title on the line.
On Dec. 18, Veritas defeated Wright City 47-22 to close out the Orchard Farm Tournament.
Elledge said that the goal is to keep the team trending in the direction it's been trending after St. Clair.
“After the game, our players shared how great it was to put together not just a win but a solid team effort,” Elledge said. “Going into Friday against Veritas, we look to continue the same energy and to compete like we know we can.”
