It was a district tournament final that felt more like a state championship match. In fact, it was a rematch of the finalist in the 2020 state tournament that saw Hackett win its second consecutive state title. But on this night in Booneville, the match had a much different feel to the fans that were in attendance. In this match, it was Paris being the aggressor and making great saves on defense for crucial points that eventually led to a 3-2 come back win for Paris.
The 3A West tournament championship for Paris also gave the Lady Eagles a number one seed in the state tournament that begins today at Paris High School. The Hackett loss relegated the Lady Hornets to a two seed, and like last year for Paris, will mean that Hackett will have a little more challenging path to the state final. In tournament play, anything can happen, and usually does. But on paper, it appears that the Paris path to the finals will likely be Mayflower, Atkins, and Little Rock Episcopal. Hackett’s path as a two seed will likely mean that the Lady Hornets will play Jessieville, Hoxie, and Little Rock Baptist Prep to return to the finals. A much more difficult path playing last year’s quarterfinalist Prep and semifinalist Hoxie on the way to Hot Springs. Of course, all of this is meaningless, but on paper, it is very interesting to consider.
Hackett is scheduled to play today at 2 p.m. versus Jessieville, and Paris will play at 4 p.m. vs. Mayflower. The first game of the tournament will be the four seed Charleston Lady Tigers versus the Little Rock Episcopal Lady Wildcats. Resident Press will provide updates twice each day on this year’s state tournament.
So, it is the most wonderful time of the year! Come out to Paris Gymnasium and see outstanding Arkansas high school volleyball action!
