Katy’s double steal in the 6th was the difference in its 1-0 win against Keller in the UIL 6A softball semifinal.
Tigers advance to play Klein Collins in Saturday’s final.
Tigers advance to play Klein Collins in Saturday’s final.
No. 1 -- Magnolia West Mustangs
2023: 36-5 (District 21-5A Champions/UIL-5A State Champions)
The “Dirt Boys” are back and ready for more, following an unprecedented playoff run in 2023, which saw the Mustangs take home its first ever State Title.
Coach of the Year Travis Earles and company will undoubtedly be hyped for this season, as they can sport their shiny championship rings with their loyal fan-base in tow.
Even though some of last season’s major players – Washington Nationals-draftee James Ellwanger comes to mind – Mag West has talent to spare, such as district first-teamers Dawson Park (Texas State-commit), Cody Palacios, Caldwell McFaddin (Baylor) and Trenton Buckley (Louisiana-Monroe).
Don’t forget about Trey Jeanes.
The reigning champs will have a target on their backs this Spring, but something tells me they’re up for the challenge.
No. 2 -- Friendswood Mustangs
2023: 28-6-2 (District 18-5A Champions/Regional Quarterfinalist)
Following yet another district title, Friendswood was knocked out of the playoffs sooner than expected last season, exiting the bracket in the third round courtesy of Barbers Hill.
Rest assured, the Mustangs will still be one of the strongest clubs in the state.
The likes of district Utility MVP Kyle Lockhart, Offensive MVP Peyton Adams, and first-teamers Dane Perry (Texas Tech-commit) and Dawson Hinson will headline Friendswood’s formidable roster, as coach Robert Benavides and company intend to make a statement in 2024.
Additionally, Nebraska-signee Blake Encarnacion will anchor a pitching staff of Lockhart and Houston Rhodes.
No. 3 -- Barbers Hill Eagles
2023: 27-12-1 (District 17-5A Champions/Regional Semifinalist)
“The Hill” is buoyed by a long-standing tradition of success, which is unlikely to change in 2024.
After going four rounds deep in the postseason a year ago, coach David Denny and the Eagles return to the diamond with a steadfast determination to return to State.
Numerous starters return, including Austin Marlin (Paris JC-commit), Ayden Mooring, Brady Thompson, Micah Calbert and Cooper Lucas, which should keep the fan-base optimistic for another riveting season.
All signs point towards Barbers Hill winning its sixth district championship over the course of the last decade.
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