COACH: Jason Horn
Record: 16–13
OUTLOOK
The Webb City Cardinals enter the upcoming season with depth, experience and a roster built to create match-up problems across the board. Now in his tenth year leading the program, head coach Jason Horn brings back a strong core hungry to take another step forward after finishing 16–13 a season ago.
“We return a solid group who gained valuable experience at the varsity level last season,” Horn said. “When you add in a talented group of underclassmen, we will have depth and competition for playing time. We have a good mix of size [and] athleticism that could prove to be a tough match-up for our opponents.”
Senior forward Hudson Matthiesen (6-6, Sr.) headlines the lineup after emerging as one of the top front court players in the area. “Hudson is long athletic forward who can guard multiple positions. Offensively, he has the ability to score from the perimeter or with his back to the basket. He has been offered by and receiving interest from several D2 schools. I think he has the potential to be one of the top players in SWMO.”
In the backcourt, senior guard Trae Turner (6-1, Sr.) returns after averaging 6.7 points, 3 rebounds, and 3.5 steals per game, giving Webb City a dynamic defender and playmaker. Senior Holden Johnson (6-4, Sr.) adds reliable production inside after contributing 3.6 points and 2.1 rebounds last season. Junior guard Mason Young (6-3, Jr.) provides versatility with 2.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1.3 steals per game.
The roster also features senior contributors Slade Hurd (6-0, G), Grayson Smith (5-10, G), Will McClintick (6-1, F), Fen Rice (5-8, G), along with junior guards Carson Anderson (6’1) and Austin Essley (5-11).
Anderson is the team’s Future Star selection. “Carson is an explosive athlete with a quick first step and the ability to finish plays at the rim. He is capable of being a lock-down defender and he has a tireless work ethic.”
A deep sophomore group strengthens the Cardinals’ rotation with Rylan Houston (6-4, F), Brattie Holland (6-0, G), Jackson Adams (6-0, G), Jacob Stities (6-0, G), and Jackson Kent (6-4, F). Adams is the team’s underclassman to watch. “Jackson is a physically guard who can finish plays around the basket.”
The Cardinals also highlight senior Grayson Smith. “Grayson is [a] high character kid who is a great teammate and leader in our program. He has been active helping with our special needs kids in our Unified Basketball program.”
