GAMES
RANKINGS
The stars of 2024-25 Lake Creek Softball
THE TIER LIST: Final VYPE HOU Softball Rankings with playoffs nearing; H-Town's powers remain
Fortunately for local fans, the Houston area is stacked with elite programs poised for deep postseason runs.
Claiming the top spot in our rankings for the first time this spring are the Lake Creek Lions, who are channeling the dominance of their recent dynasty.
From 2021 to 2023, Lake Creek compiled a staggering 123-3 record and captured back-to-back state titles (2022, 2023). Now, they head into the final week of the regular season at a flawless 26-0, with their sights firmly set on a third championship.
Not far behind is Katy, another perennial powerhouse that’s already clinched its 10th straight district title (excluding the COVID year). With a 29-1 record, the Tigers are looking to make their first title run since 2019.
Also in the spotlight is Barbers Hill, a Class 5A contender sitting at 27-2 and currently ranked No. 3 in the state by MaxPreps. The Eagles have proven themselves as a legitimate threat and are positioned to make a serious push this postseason.
Other teams who have made considerable strides in the back-half of district-play are Conroe, Langham Creek, Tomball, Pearland, Clear Creek, and Angleton.
With so much talent across the region, the next few weeks promise to deliver high drama—and possibly another state trophy or two for the Houston area.
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Katy Tigers
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
*Parentheses indicates current district
*Last section indicates current overall record; district record
VYPE HOUSTON SOFTBALL TOP-20 (Class 6A-4A)
1. Lake Creek Lions (17-5A) -- 26-0; 11-0 in District
2. Katy Tigers (19-6A) -- 29-1; 14-0
3. Barbers Hill Eagles (19-5A) -- 27-2; 14-0
4. Kingwood Mustangs (23-6A) -- 23-4-1; 11-2
5. Liberty Panthers (19-4A) -- 22-5; 11-0
6. Conroe Tigers (13-6A) -- 23-5; 14-1
7. Summer Creek Bulldogs (23-6A) -- 24-4; 11-2
8. Atascocita Eagles (23-6A) -- 22-5; 10-3
9. Tomball Cougars (15-6A) -- 24-3; 16-0
10. Pearland Oilers (22-6A) -- 24-6; 15-0
11. Langham Creek Lobos (16-6A) -- 22-4; 13-0
12. Clear Creek Wildcats (24-6A) -- 16-5; 10-3
13. Angleton Wildcats (20-5A) -- 14-3; 9-2
14. Deer Park Deer (24-6A) -- 19-8; 9-4
15. Friendswood Mustangs (20-5A) -- 22-4; 8-3
16. Clear Springs Chargers (24-6A) -- 16-6; 9-4
17. Oak Ridge War Eagles (13-6A) -- 20-8; 10-5
18. La Porte Bulldogs (20-5A) -- 17-4-1; 9-3
19. Katy Jordan Warriors (19-6A) -- 19-4; 12-3
20. Ridge Point Panthers (21-6A) -- 18-3; 11-0
Honorable Mentions: Stratford (17-6A), Houston Memorial (17-6A), Grand Oaks (13-6A), Needville (29-4A), Clear Lake (24-6A), Crosby (18-5A), Willis (13-6A), Kingwood Park (18-5A), Foster (20-6A), Katy Taylor (19-6A), Cy-Fair (17-6A)
Angleton's Lily Calderon
THE PLAYMAKERS: Loading the Artillery, powered by UTMB Health
Here are the UTMB Athletes of the Week, as we enter the thick of District-play and beyond this Spring.
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Walker Hurst -- Pearland Baseball
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Pearland remains a powerhouse in District 22-6A, boasting a solid 17-6 record (9-2 in district) as they sit comfortably in second place.
While senior shortstop and Texas A&M-commit Nico Partida has earned much of the attention, the Oilers’ success is far from a one-man show. Senior outfielder Walker Hurst has emerged as a key contributor, consistently delivering with both bat and glove.
An All-Tournament selection at last year’s State competition, Hurst continues to shine in his final season with Pearland. With a .254 batting average, 12 RBIs, 2 home runs, and 16 runs scored, he has been one of the team’s most dynamic offensive players.
His ability to deliver clutch hits and provide a steady presence in the lineup has been crucial to Pearland’s continued success.
As the Oilers pursue another deep playoff run, Hurst’s performance could be pivotal in their quest to return to the State Tournament. Pearland’s combination of experienced leadership and emerging talent like Hurst makes them a team to watch as the season progresses.
Lily Calderon -- Angleton Softball
Doug Brown (VYPE)
Angleton has already established itself as one of Texas' premier softball teams, currently ranked No. 25 by MaxPreps with a 12-2 record heading into the second half of the season.
Under the leadership of Coach Cindy Rubio, the Wildcats are on track to secure their third district championship in four years—and senior first baseman/outfielder Lily Calderon has been the driving force behind their impressive run.
Calderon is putting together a standout season, hitting an impressive .429 at the plate while leading the team with 18 RBIs, 2 home runs, and 9 runs scored. Her offensive production has been vital to the Wildcats’ success, and she continues to be a key contributor in both clutch situations and everyday play.
While she remains uncommitted, Calderon’s performance on the field is certainly catching the attention of collegiate scouts. More than just her individual achievements, Calderon is determined to help Angleton overcome past playoff setbacks and make a deep postseason run this year.
With her leadership and powerful bat, Calderon is poised to help the Wildcats achieve even greater success as they chase another district title and look toward the playoffs.
Chris Lopez -- Dobie Boys Track & Field
Dobie’s Chris Lopez had an exceptional performance at the District 22-6A Track Meet throughout this past week, securing two gold medals in impressive fashion.
Lopez took first place in the 1600-meter race with a remarkable time of 4:36.53, and followed it up with another victory in the 3200-meter event, finishing with a time of 9:51.39. His dominance in both long-distance races highlights his stamina and determination as he continues to lead the charge for Dobie’s track and field team.
With these victories, Lopez is now gearing up for the Area Meet, scheduled for next Friday at Hall Stadium in Missouri City, TX.
Given his outstanding performance at the District meet, expectations are sky-high for the senior as he heads into the next stage of competition. Lopez’s focus and determination make him a strong contender for even more success as the postseason progresses.
Karsyn Carrier -- Manvel Softball
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
Despite navigating a tough District 22-6A, the Mavericks have remained competitive, with a solid 11-9 record and a three-way tie for fourth place alongside Dawson and Shadow Creek.
A key reason for their success this season is the stellar play of sophomore outfielder Karsyn Carrier, whose standout performance has been instrumental in keeping Manvel in playoff contention.
Carrier has been a dominant force at the plate, currently batting .439 and leading the team with 24 RBIs and 4 home runs. Her offensive production has provided a significant spark for Manvel, and she continues to be a key contributor in their pursuit of a postseason berth.
Alongside fellow standouts like Kaylah Hopkins, Skylar Frederick, Jaylie Miller, and Chloe Ramirez, Carrier has helped the Mavericks remain firmly in the playoff conversation as the season progresses.
With more contributions from this talented group, Manvel should remain in the hunt as they look to secure a spot in the playoffs by the end of April.
McKenzi Roberson -- Shadow Creek Girls Track & Field
With the departure of last year’s standout Mackenzie Collins (University of Texas) —who earned multiple medals at the UIL State Meet—Shadow Creek High School's track program has a new face.
Sophomore McKenzi Roberson has quickly established herself as a dominant force, signaling a bright future for the Lady Sharks.
Roberson made an immediate impact at the District 22-6A Meet this week, capturing gold in both the 100-meter dash (12.05 seconds) and 200-meter dash (24.33 seconds). Her victories not only showcase her individual talent but also hint at the potential for even greater achievements as the season progresses.
While Collins’ legacy looms large with her success in the 300m hurdles and relays at the state level, Roberson is already proving she has the speed and determination to carve out her own path. As a sophomore, her rise to the top is only just beginning.
With such an impressive performance early in the season, Roberson is poised to make a splash at the UIL State Meet in Austin in the coming weeks. The future is bright for Shadow Creek’s track and field program, and McKenzi Roberson is leading the way.