County boys players of the week

The 2025 Warren County 6–8 grade boys basketball preseason tournament delivered everything this league has become known for — energy, edge, program pride and the kind of pressure moments that turn regular kids into future county legends. From the opening tip Thursday to the final horn Friday night, every game felt like a preview of a season loaded with storylines and contenders.

Dibrell’s championship run came with all the grit and drama fans expect from the Wildcats. A semifinal battle built on big shots led into an instant-classic final where Dibrell showed resilience, toughness and just enough late-game poise to outlast a furious Centertown rally in overtime. The Warriors, as always, played with a championship standard — size, depth, defense and a never-say-die mindset that kept them one bounce away from taking home the trophy. Morrison showcased one of the tournament’s most explosive scorers, Irving College proved it could make any matchup uncomfortable, Eastside pushed a strong Tiger team to OT and Boyd battled through a loaded bracket with relentless effort.

Across the county, players stepped into starring roles, teams found out who they could lean on when everything tightened up and gyms were packed with fans who care deeply about this league. It felt like the beginning of another memorable season — one built on tradition, rivalries, player development and community pride.

The Main Street Journal is excited to recognize the young athletes who elevated their games on the county’s biggest early-season stage. These Players of the Week showed leadership, toughness and the ability to rise when the moment demanded it.

This coverage is brought to you by our terrific sponsors: Kevin Rhoton at SouthPoint Risk, Cole Taylor Lawn Care, M&M Farms, McCorkle Landscaping and Crisp Springs Fireworks.

DIBRELL – JULLIAN TORRES

The Tournament MVP delivered in the biggest moments. Torres scored a team-high 11 in the title game and anchored the Wildcats’ interior defense throughout the week. When Dibrell needed a bucket or a stop, Torres was the one who rose to it.

CENTERTOWN – WALTER BOON

Boon dominated the paint in Centertown’s semifinal win, scoring 14 and controlling the boards from start to finish. His size, touch and physical presence set the tone for a Warriors team that fought all the way to an overtime thriller in the championship.

MORRISON – WESTON MURPHY

One of the tournament’s breakout stars, Murphy poured in 15 in the quarterfinal win and exploded for 23 in the consolation game. His athleticism, scoring ability and competitive motor made him nearly impossible to contain.

IRVING COLLEGE – DAKOTA LOCKEMY

Lockemy put together one of the strongest two-game stretches of the tournament, scoring nine in the OT win over Eastside and 11 more against Morrison. He attacked the rim fearlessly and delivered in crucial moments.

BOYD – JUSTIN SPRY

Spry powered the Broncos in their quarterfinal matchup with Morrison, scoring a team-high 12 points and serving as the steadying force against heavy defensive pressure. His ability to create offense in tight spaces kept Boyd alive deep into the fourth.

EASTSIDE – HAYDEN MULLICAN

Mullican’s work in the middle kept Eastside within striking distance during its overtime battle with Irving College. His presence in the paint, defensive positioning and tough interior scoring stood out in a grinder of a game.