2nd Annual S.T.R.O.N.G. Dandy Dozen Showcase Recap

The 2nd Annual S.T.R.O.N.G. Dandy Dozen Showcase brought together top basketball talent from Arkansas and neighboring states for a thrilling two-day event. Held in Jacksonville, AR, this year’s showcase featured intense matchups, standout performances, and a glimpse into what’s shaping up to be an exciting season for several programs. While I couldn’t cover every game due to some being played at a separate location, I managed to watch and stat most of the action.

Below, I’ve provided highlights and key takeaways from the games I covered. Final scores and top performers are included, with full stats for Arkansas teams to be uploaded on their individual pages in the coming days.

Day 1

From edge-of-your-seat finishes to dominant team performances, Day 1 offered plenty of moments to remember. Here’s a full breakdown of the games I was able to cover, complete with standout players, final scores, and overall thoughts.

Game 1: eStem vs. East Poinsett County (Girls)

Final Score: 47-46 (EPC Wins)

Leading Scorers:

• eStem: Precious Powell – 21 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals.

• EPC: Allison Gaines – 18 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals.

Thoughts: The Lady Mets have transformed from a struggling program into a team ready to compete in 4A. Precious Powell is an exceptional scorer who thrives in high-pressure moments, supported by Morgan Thornton’s drives and Simya Magsby’s relentless rebounding. EPC, a 2A program, played beyond their classification, leaning on the leadership of Allison Gaines and Kyla Harston. Harston’s double-double (13 points, 13 rebounds) stood out, as she dominated the boards and helped secure a hard-fought victory.

Game 2: North Little Rock vs. Camden Fairview (Girls)

Final Score: 55-38 (NLR Wins)

Leading Scorers:

• NLR: Katie Fimple – 13 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals.

  Elicia Shepherd – 13 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals.

• Camden Fairview: Miciah Fusilier – 15 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 5 steals, 4 blocks.

Thoughts: NLR remains a powerhouse in 6A Central, boasting an impressive combination of perimeter shooting and interior strength. Fimple and Kinley Mears excel beyond the arc, while Mia Hopkins and Shepherd anchor the paint. Camden Fairview showed flashes of promise with sophomore post player Miciah Fusilier leading the way. Her ability to block shots and score efficiently makes her a standout despite the loss. Look for this young team to continue improving as they navigate the challenges of 4A.

Game 3: Earle vs. Jacksonville (Girls)

Final Score: 56-47 (Earle Wins)

Leading Scorers:

• Earle: Jada Maples – 25 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, 7 steals.

• Jacksonville: Morgan Bradley – 11 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal.

  
  

Thoughts: Earle’s tight rotation relies heavily on Maples and Jefferson, who consistently deliver big performances. Maples, in particular, showcased her scoring versatility and defensive prowess with seven steals. Jacksonville, led by Morgan Bradley, Lex Keo, and D’arrah Tippitt, showed flashes of brilliance but struggled to maintain momentum against Earle’s well-oiled attack. Competing in the tough 5A Central, the Lady Titans will need to find ways to capitalize on their strengths.

Game 4: eStem vs. White Hall (Boys)

Final Score: 57-55 (eStem Wins)

Leading Scorers:

• eStem: Holden Kirk – 29 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block.

• White Hall: AJ McCray – 25 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals.

Thoughts: Sophomore Holden Kirk was simply electric, going 9-14 from beyond the arc and proving himself as one of the best sophomores in the state. His ability to hit contested shots and make smart plays under pressure was the deciding factor in this nail-biter. White Hall has a lot to build on with new leadership and standout players like AJ McCray and freshman guard Brian Cal Jr., who could play a significant role this season.

Game 5: Har-Ber vs. Canton (MS) (Girls)

Final Score: 63-33 (Har-Ber Wins)

Leading Scorer:

• Har-Ber: Madisen Campbell – 19 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 5 steals.

Thoughts: Har-Ber is one of the most complete teams I’ve seen this season. The Campbell twins, Madisen and Makenlie, just Sophomores, are phenomenal guards who play with incredible energy. Alongside Jazmine McCarther and Brooklyn Owens, this team has the depth, speed, and basketball IQ to contend for the 6A state title. Canton struggled to match Har-Ber’s intensity, but the game provided valuable experience for the Lady Tigers.

Game 6: Maumelle vs. Newcastle (OK) (Boys)

Final Score: 75-54 (Maumelle Wins)

Leading Scorer:

• Maumelle: Markalon Rochell – 17 points, 6 rebounds, 7 steals.

Thoughts: Maumelle showcased not only its talent but its depth. Senior leader Markalon Rochell led the charge with a stellar first-half performance, allowing younger players like Ashton Shelton and Nash Page to step in and contribute significantly. This game highlighted the Hornets’ potential to excel in tight situations, with a bench ready to deliver when needed. Maumelle’s depth will be their biggest weapon in the long grind of the season.

Day 2

The second day offered something for every basketball fan. Here's a breakdown of the day’s games, standout players, and my reflections on what lies ahead for these teams.

Game 1: Bryant vs. Classen (OK) | Girls

Final Score: 58-46 (Bryant Wins)

Leading Scorer:

• Bryant: Keila Dailey – 21 points, 2 rebounds, 1 steal.

Thoughts: The Bryant Lady Hornets have a fresh core of talented freshmen—Jaisha Williams and the Dailey twins, Keila and Kiersten—ready to lead this season. Paired with senior India Robinson, Bryant has a promising blend of youth and experience. Williams is an absolute force on the boards and on both ends of the floor. Her humble demeanor and consistency will take her far, and she is undoubtedly a player to watch for the next level. The Dailey twins, phenomenal guards, are proving they can handle pressure and will only improve. Bryant has a bright future with this group.

Game 2: Earle vs. Newcastle (OK) | Girls

Final Score: 52-49 (Newcastle Wins)

Leading Scorer:

• Earle: Jada Maples – 22 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 5 steals, 1 block.

Thoughts: This game was a battle to the finish. Earle’s Lady Bulldogs leaned heavily on their standout guards, Jada Maples and Journee Jefferson. Jefferson faced foul trouble early but played smartly off the ball to avoid fouling out. Despite the loss, Maples and Jefferson showcased why they’re among the best guards in Arkansas, especially in 1A. Their leadership and skill will keep Earle in contention this season.

Game 3: Newcastle (OK) vs. NLR | Boys

Final Score: 70-35 (NLR Wins)

Leading Scorer:

• NLR: Kevon Smith – 17 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals.

Thoughts: NLR’s boys dominated from start to finish, proving too much for Newcastle to handle. Senior Andre Barnes and junior Kevon Smith led the charge with their strong team play and ball movement. Noah Butler had an impressive game off the bench, adding 14 points, 4 rebounds, and a block. Competing in the 6A Central, NLR looks poised for a strong playoff run, with Bryant likely being their toughest competition.

Game 4: Camden Fairview vs. Har-Ber | Girls

Final Score: 73-34 (Har-Ber Wins)

Leading Scorers:

• Camden Fairview: Miciah Fusilier – 19 points, 5 rebounds, 1 steal.

• Har-Ber: Makenlie Campbell – 22 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals.

Thoughts: Har-Ber’s dominance was evident as they overwhelmed Camden Fairview. The Campbell twins, Makenlie and Madisen, solidified their status as the best guards in 6A and contenders for the state’s top players as sophomores. Camden Fairview’s Miciah Fusilier fought hard, but she didn’t have enough support to match Har-Ber’s intensity. Har-Ber’s speed, teamwork, and relentless energy make them a favorite to win their region and earn a top seed in the playoffs.

Game 5: Mills vs. LR Central | Girls

Final Score: 64-23 (LR Central Wins)

Leading Scorers:

• Mills: Ma’Kenzie King – 10 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist, 2 steals, 2 blocks.

• LR Central: Jakyia Wilson – 12 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, 1 block.

Thoughts: This 4A vs. 6A matchup showed the difference in depth and experience. Mills, under Coach Joe Gregory, is still rebuilding with a young roster but shows promise with players like King, Gregory, and Johnson. Meanwhile, reigning 6A State Champion LR Central proved they remain a formidable contender, despite losing key seniors. Their defense and balanced offense will keep them competitive in 6A this season.

Game 6: Canton (MS) vs. NLR | Girls

Final Score: 47-29 (NLR Wins)

Leading Scorer:

• NLR: Elicia Shepherd – 10 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals.

Thoughts: The Lady Charging Wildcats struggled to find their rhythm early, with key players Fimple and Mears missing shots they usually make. However, they found their flow in the second half and secured a convincing win. NLR continues to show resilience and depth, which will serve them well in the tough 6A Central.

Game 7: Hot Springs vs. eStem | Boys

Final Score: 60-59 (eStem Wins)

Leading Scorers:

• Hot Springs: Jaeir Hardwell – 30 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 4 steals.

• eStem: Holden Kirk – 14 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists.

Thoughts: This matchup lived up to the hype, delivering one of the most thrilling games of the showcase. Hot Springs and eStem went back and forth in a nail-biter that came down to the final seconds. Jaeir Hardwell put on a show for the Trojans, scoring 30 points with relentless energy on both ends of the floor. Hardwell’s ability to attack the rim, create his own shot, and play intense defense kept Hot Springs in the fight, especially when eStem’s perimeter game caught fire.

eStem, now set to be a 4A powerhouse after competing in 5A for years, showcased their shooting depth and versatility, which shows the commitment of the dedicated coaching staff that this team holds. Holden Kirk led the charge with his steady hand from behind the arc, but it was the collective effort of Michael Stewart, King Alexander, Riley Jones, and Jayson Williams that made the difference. The Mets drained 11 three-pointers, proving their reputation as a team that can’t be left open.

This game also highlighted two programs at pivotal moments. For Hot Springs, under new head coach Josh Hayes, integrating a mix of returning players and transfers, including his son Jai Hayes, has brought newfound energy and toughness. While Jai didn’t have many touches in this game, his presence has already elevated the team’s ceiling. The Trojans fought until the very end, forcing turnovers, and had a chance to tie the game at the free-throw line in the final minute, but missed opportunities sealed their fate.

For eStem, Coach Monty Patel has built a team of sharpshooters and athletes, integrating transfers from Bryant, Maumelle, LR Central, and Beebe to create one of the deepest rosters in their conference. Their ability to spread the floor and capitalize on defensive lapses will make them a nightmare matchup all season. This win sets the tone for eStem’s season in the competitive 4A conference, while Hot Springs solidified its status as a top contender in 5A South.

Game 8: Bryant vs. Maumelle | Boys

Final Score: 56-55 (Bryant Wins)

Leading Scorers:

• Bryant: Camarion Bead – 24 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block.

• Maumelle: Malik McGuire – 16 points, 15 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks.

Thoughts: This game had everything: high stakes, star players, and a dramatic finish. In a rematch of a game Maumelle won just weeks ago, Bryant flipped the script with a buzzer-beater three-pointer by Terrance Cochran to steal the victory.

Bryant’s resilience was on full display as they played without senior UALR commit Kellen Robinson, who remains sidelined with an injury. Junior standouts Camarion Bead and RJ Young stepped up once again, proving they’re capable of leading this team through tough matchups. Bead’s 24-point performance was a clinic in scoring efficiency, while Young provided critical support with his court vision and defensive effort.

For Maumelle, the loss was heartbreaking but revealed the potential of this newly formed squad. Senior Malik McGuire was an absolute force, grabbing 15 rebounds and dominating the paint. His ability to create second-chance opportunities and control the boards kept Maumelle in the game. Derrick Lewis, another standout, hustled on every possession, making key defensive plays and hitting clutch shots when his team needed them most.

This game also highlighted the Hornets' growing chemistry. With transfers from Jacksonville, Conway, Maumelle Charter, and other programs, the team is still learning to play together. Senior Markalon Rochell has emerged as a vocal leader, hitting a late three-pointer to put Maumelle up by two in the final minute. Cedric Jones and Jayce Tillman continue to be key contributors, helping create space and capitalizing on opportunities.

The ending, however, belonged to Bryant. As time wound down, the ball found its way to Cochran, who had been relatively quiet offensively. With the game on the line, he sank a deep three as the buzzer sounded, sending the Bryant bench into a frenzy and solidifying their reputation as one of the most mentally tough teams in the state.

Why These Games Matter

The S.T.R.O.N.G. Dandy Dozen Showcase is not just a chance for players to display their skills, but an opportunity for teams to fine-tune their strategies, build team chemistry, and prepare for the grueling season ahead. Every game in the showcase played a significant role, offering valuable insights into what these teams can achieve this year.

From the freshman-led Bryant girls to the defensive and offensive battles between powerhouse boys teams like eStem and Hot Springs, the games highlighted key performances that will shape their teams' seasons. These matchups set the tone for each team's aspirations, making sure they stand out as some of the top teams to watch this season.

Games like Bryant vs. Maumelle, where a buzzer-beating shot decided the winner, show the high level of competition in both 5A and 6A. These matchups are more than just early-season tests; they are a chance for teams to showcase their growth, test their resilience, and prove they belong among the top contenders.

Whether it's a star-studded lineup or the scrappy, rebuilding teams like Mills or Camden Fairview, every contest provided crucial learning moments. Teams like Earle showed that even in a loss, they can compete and gain valuable experience that will serve them in the long run.

Each game contributed to the larger picture, setting the stage for the challenges teams will face as they enter their respective conferences and tournaments. The showcase, with its array of talented players and teams, gave fans a preview of the exciting basketball that lies ahead for the rest of the season.

As the dust settles on this year's S.T.R.O.N.G. Dandy Dozen Showcase, one thing is clear: the excitement and talent on display have set the stage for what promises to be another thrilling season of Arkansas basketball. But as we turn the page to the upcoming months of competition, the countdown to next year’s showcase has already begun. With so many teams and players leaving their mark, we can only imagine what next year will bring. Be sure to mark your calendars and start gearing up—because the 2025 S.T.R.O.N.G. Dandy Dozen Showcase is already shaping up to be one for the books!

KFletch 🖤