Darren Doyle, story:
The five-series documentary, "50 Years as Champions" is now available with the series finale being released on Friday, March 27th. Across all Edmonson Voice platforms, it's getting close to receiving 40,000 views. 

In the film world, that's nothing. Not even a drop in the tiniest bucket. But for a county with a population of only 12,000, with a homegrown production, that's pretty significant. 

I first had the idea of this project 10 years ago when the team "celebrated" their 40th anniversary. When I use the term "celebrated," I mean some of the members of the team came to the high school and waved at the crowd during halftime at one of the games. It was a nice gesture but I felt like they deserved more. I remember thinking, "somebody better do something really special for their 50th."

Who would that be? Would I write an article on how great the team was? There was no way to do that in one article. No matter whether or not you are a sports fan, you have to understand that the chances of Edmonson County winning the state basketball championship was the same as getting struck by lightning. Twice. At the end of the rainbow, in a field of four-leaf clovers.

I said it before and I'll say it again. This wasn't just a once-in-a-lifetime achievement. It's more like ten lifetimes. That's no disrespect to any of the other teams that have come through Edmonson County High School. There have been some dandy teams and amazing players down through the years. But winning the championship for a community like ours takes so much more than just being a great team.

In 1976, the ECHS Wildcats were a group of young boys that would have played on a homemade hoop in a dirt floor barn. In fact, most of them did. They never set out to win a championship, but because their love and dedication to each other was a bond so strong, they fought for each other on and off the court, which led to winning.

This group of boys had practiced against some of the best players that ever came through Edmonson County. There was never a night where the 76 Wildcats would ever face players better than Gary Key or Gary Meredith. Those earlier teams showed the 76 team what it was like to be winners. The teams before them were just as good, if not better, statistically in some areas.

But the 76 Wildcats had something all championship teams have--it's hard to say exactly what that was. They were all obviously skilled at their positions but not really stars. For whatever reason, Coach Bo Davenport played mostly six players. There were a few others that got into some games during that season, but they didn't earn many minutes. There was other talent there besides the six, but the six were the ones that played the majority of the minutes. The ones that sat the bench were not only some of the loudest cheerleaders, but also very talented athletes. 

When their coach got in their faces, they didn't run home and tell their mommies. They didn't call the superintendent's office and demand a meeting. They didn't demand the coach be fired. They respected their coach enough and their commitment to the team enough, to do what it took to win. They cared about the name on the front of the jersey much more that individual accolades.

The 76 team was fearless but not arrogant. They simply took each game one at a time and knew that it would take the same thing to win every night. They didn't win because of their super-stardom; they won because losing meant they were letting their teammates down, their coach down, their school down, and their community, and they did not want to lose.

They had some luck along the way. They made the big plays when they had to. They knew they had to make them, and they did. They got an outstanding draw in the Sweet Sixteen, and one of the best teams in the nation, with national player of the year Darryl Griffith, didn't even make it to the state tournament that year.

The strokes of good fortune they had are too many to name, on TOP of being an outstanding team. So when you say "once-in-a-lifetime," it's more than just a phrase; however, the boys saw an opportunity and they were relentless in making the most out of that opportunity, which ultimately ended with cutting down the nets at Freedom Hall.

Interviews with former players, staff, administration, and even an opponent, tell the stories of how the team came to be. The audience gets to hear straight from them. You'll get to see the comradery between the guys, and even 50 years later, they are still laughing and sharing these memories.

I would like to personally thank everyone that was a part of this series in any way, and specifically, those who helped financially. Those people include Dion Houchins, Kasey Alford, and Alan Kepple. They helped make my vision of this possible.

I would also like to thank Yellowberri Creative Studios in Bowling Green. One of my dear friends in the media business is Josh Hampton, who helped create this company nearly 20 years ago. I am not a filmmaker, I've never claimed to be, and I needed some real help to figure out if I could pull this off. He was a huge help in the very beginning of this project as a consultant, and with the help of other YB team members Nate Morgulen and Dave Downing, they brought my idea to life. 

The rest of the thanks are in the credits of the series, and there are plenty more of them. 

I would encourage any athlete at any level to watch this series. This is how championships are won. It's literally a recipe to bring home trophies; and while the recipe is simple, following it is anything but easy. 

Need motivation to get something done? To move to another level of something in your life? Watch this series. If you aren't motivated to do something better after watching it, you can't be motivated.

These guys deserve all the accolades, ceremonies, and reflection possible, and more. People keep thanking me and the Voice crew for doing this, but please direct your thanks to the guys that made up this team. 

The Voice didn't profit from this project and that wasn't the intent. This was for two reasons: honor and preservation. I hope both can be accomplished.

It's incredible, and I thank all of you for watching and sharing it. With as much work as this one took, I'm already behind on the next project: "100 Years as Champions..."

Peytin Manor, story and photos:
On Monday, March 23rd, Lillian Cook, Edmonson County High School senior, signed a letter of intent to shoot archery for Midway University, located in Midway, Kentucky. 

Midway University Archery is ranked 19th in the United States for their program.

She is the daughter of Josh and Casey Cook. Lillian plans to double major in equine science and biology and minor in pre-veterinary medicine. 

Lillian, an Edmonson County native, has been shooting archery for the Wildcats for five years. 

ECHS Archery Head Coach Robert Bryant states, “One thing I can say about Lillian is she is a leader amongst her peers. On many occasions she would take it upon herself to lead and guide underclassmen in practice and help and encourage during the most competitive phases of our tournaments. She is someone I could count on if needed to run the range during practice and even stepped out of her comfort zone and filled in for an injured archer during one of our 3D tournaments.”

Lillian’s career average from eighth grade until her senior season is 244.57 out of a 300. Her single season average has progressively gotten better each year. She shot her highest average this season of 260.34 out of 300 and also scored her seasonal and career personal best this season of 280 out of 300.

​

​In a touching tribute, Eli’s family threw out the ceremonial first pitch. Following the pitch, a banner was placed in center field–Eli’s position–to honor his legacy at Edmonson County High School.

The team then gathered with Eli’s family in center field for a moment of prayer, reflecting on his impact both on and off the field.

To further honor Eli’s memory, a $500 scholarship has been established in his name. Each year, it will be awarded to two seniors, ensuring that his legacy continues to make a difference in the lives of future Wildcats.

“Our team lost not only a great player but a brother," said Wildcat Head Coach Michael Meredith. "He was a leader for us statistically and emotionally.  When the accident happened and we had time to process it for a little bit, our guys started coming up with some ideas to honor him.  

Meredith said this wouldn't be a one-game thing for the Wildcats.

"We may not have a ceremony every game, but his banner will hang in center field the entire year.  His name and number are on our hats and helmets, and we will have a jersey #0, hanging in our dugout every home game.  One of our guys plans to hold his jersey during the national anthem.  Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat just isn’t a saying to us, it’s an extra special bond that we will forever share with Eli and his family.  The ceremony was to let his family and our community know that this young man will live in our hearts this year.  Eli is our “angel in the outfield” We have dedicated our season to him this year.  LLEM”

It was a night filled with both triumph and remembrance–one that will not be forgotten by the team, the family, or the community.

EC finished with a total of 10 hits. Drew Pierce (#14) led the offense, going 3 for 4 with 3 RBIs that included a home run.

Hunter Wilson went 2 for 3, Logan Key was also 2 for 3, as well as Jacob Logan.

The Wildcats are 1-0 on the season.

​​

Edmonson Voice Sports:
Carter Hodges, Glasgow High School senior and native of Edmonson County, signs a letter of intent to play baseball for Wabash Valley College in Mount Carmel, Illinois. 

The Warriors are currently ranked 18th in the nation in the D1 NJCAA. Hodges, originally from Chalybeate, is the son of Jonathan and Lori Hodges and plans to study Agri-Business. 

Carter grew up in Edmonson County, playing youth sports and two years of high school sports at ECHS before moving to Glasgow.​

Peytin Manor, story: Gabe DeArmond, photos, Darren Doyle, contributor:
The Lady Cats battled hard against the tough Owensboro Catholic Lady Aces on their home court at the Sportscenter in Owensboro in the 3rd Region Tournament Semi-finals on March 6th but fell 75-48.

The Lady Cats came out strong in the first quarter, setting the tone early against the Lady Aces with aggressive defense and steady scoring. Cariann Williams (#30) opened the game with a basket on the first drive for the Lady Cats and continued to make her presence known on both ends of the floor, blocking multiple shots, and creating several opportunities in the first.

Shelby Sowders (#50) added momentum with eight points in the first quarter; Addison Spainhoward (#23) chipped in a score of her own, helping Edmonson control the pace. Although Owensboro Catholic answered with a few key free throws, the Lady Cats’ defensive pressure and early execution allowed them to hold a 12-9 lead at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter was fast-paced and physical with both teams fighting for every point. As the quarter progressed, the Lady Cats’ performance began to decline towards the end of the second, much in part to Williams receiving her controversial third foul call. OC took advantage of the situation, increasing their lead as they went on a 7-0 run after the score was tied at 19. At the end of the half, Edmonson trailed Owensboro Catholic 21 to 29.

Edmonson County continued delivering pressure into the third quarter but OC managed to fight through it and outscored them by another 8 points. At the end of the third, Owensboro Catholic led 52-36.

Even though the Lady Cats played with heart and grit, they could not overcome the insurmountable lead in the fourth quarter, due much in part to OC's relentless full court pressure. The Lady Aces with their overwhelming personnel and superior offense won the day. Edmonson County committed 21 turnovers.

"I thought we came out playing solid basketball, Head Coach Jody Booth told the Edmonson Voice. "Game plan was going great & had momentum. Obviously Cariann’s 3rd foul swung the momentum in their favor before going into halftime. With all the physicality that was let go prior to that foul, it shouldn’t have been called. It changed our plan and how aggressive we could be on defense. As the second half went on, I think we hurt ourselves more than anything. We would get a stop and turn it over. Or force them into a tough shot, but not close it with a solid rebound. And eventually we wore ourselves down."

Booth said he was extremely proud of the season they had, with only two returning players with varsity experience. He relied heavily on not only the leadership of Williams, Ani Powell, and Sowders, but also new, younger players from middle school. He said the team was chosen in the preseason ranked third in the district and had a record of only 6-5 at the New Year.

"We ended our season 21-9, 10th time in program history with 20+ wins. District Runner Up, and we have our thoughts on that game," Booth added. "We won a Region Tournament game and advanced to the Semi-Finals, which is only the 3rd win since 1994. This team this season accomplished so much, on and off the court. You won’t find better role models for our youth. A lot of excitement for girls basketball in our middle school and little league. Credit goes to my players for making it exciting to watch and be a part of."

Cariann Williams (#30) and Shelby Sowders (#50)–shot 100% from the free throw line on the night, adding 14 points to the board. As a team, they were 16-17 from the FT line.

Shelby Sowders (#50) led the Lady Cats with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Cariann Williams (#30) scored 16 points with 12 rebounds and 7 blocks. Addison Spainhoward (#23) scored 5 points including a 3-pointer and 2 rebounds. Haley Hill (#14) scored 3 points with 3 rebounds. Jocelyn Decker (#32) scored 5 points. 

Edmonson shot 14-50 from the field (28%), Catholic was 27-65 (42%). Edmonson was 4-15 from three-point range (27%) while OC shot 5-20 (25%). 

After the game, Cariann Williams (#30) was awarded the Ronnie Hardin Memorial Scholarship, given to multiple Region 3 players. She ends her high school career number 4 on the all-time girls scoring list with over 2000 points, more than 1500 rebounds, and over 500 blocked shots. She is second in the state in all-time blocked shots. She plans to further her basketball career next season with the Campbellsville Lady Tigers.

​The final minutes of overtime became a game of consistency as Edmonson County went to the foul line six times, making every foul shot. Cariann Williams (#30) made the final shot of the game with 19.7 seconds left to go.

The Lady Cats held the Lady Cougars scoreless in overtime.

Carrian Williams (#30) led the Lady Cats with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Shelby Sowders (#50) scored 10 points with 7 rebounds. Addison Spainhoward (#23) scored 10 points and 2 rebounds. Haley Sanders (#4) scored 7 points. Jocelyn Decker (#32) scored 5 points.

​Edmonson County improves to 21-8 on the season and will face Owensboro Catholic on Friday for the region semifinals.

​Defensively, Muse was just as dominant. He paced the team with four forced fumbles, 45 solo tackles, 49 assisted tackles, and 94 total tackles, showcasing his toughness and consistency throughout the season.
​
ECHS Head Football Coach Justin Vessels stated, “Tristan is an all around very intelligent player. It was very reassuring having such an intelligent player on the field because it felt like having another coach on the field.”

Darren Doyle, story: Peytin Manor, photos:
Two of Edmonson County key players uncharacteristically fouled out of the District 12 Championship game against the lower seeded Butler County early in the 4th quarter, which led to difficult situations for younger players down the stretch.

Edmonson County (20-8) controlled the pace of the game until the very end but Butler County was able to take advantage of a dire situation for the Lady Cats. 

Senior Cariann Williams and junior point guard Shelby Sowders each fouled out of the game, with those foul calls being made at very inopportune times for Edmonson County. The most controversial call of the game was made by officials with 3:52 to go. With the Lady Cats leading 41-33, Sowders pulled a defensive rebound on the left side of the basket after a Butler County miss. She had one Butler defender hit her on her right side and another on her back. As Sowders hit the floor with the ball a foul call was made. The Lady Cats began to take their positions for their inbounds play--until the official announced the foul was somehow assessed to Sowders.

Lady Cat Head Coach Jody Booth was livid but it would be Sowders' 5th and final foul. Fans were upset, the bench was upset, and it changed the tone for the rest of the game. Less than 30 seconds later, Edmonson's Hayley Sanders dove on top of a loose ball as a Butler County defender fell on her right side, reaching across her back and around. The official called a held ball instead of a foul. It's a call that is arguably the most misinterpreted by officials in all of high school basketball. Butler County took possession and on a Lady Bear shot attempt, Cariann Williams was assessed her 5th foul, standing flat-footed with arms straight up. 

From there, the Lady Cats had to rely on younger players to help get the job done. Butler County's defense was relentless and the lack of experience on the floor did the Lady Cats no favors. The Lady Bears relied on their physical play and tough defense to either force turnovers or put the young Lady Cats at the free throw line, where they made only 2 of 11 free throws in the final two minutes of the game.

Any spectator had to give credit to the courage shown from the younger players in those incredibly difficult moments.

​Yes, this article is editorialized, something I rarely do with sports articles. I try to voice my opinions only on our broadcast, where we don't even pretend to be objective. Opposing fans don't like it, and that's the way it should be. I have been covering games for 12 years and broadcasts for 11 seasons and it's tiresome to see officials that constantly believe fans are coming out to watch them. Kentucky high school sports needs more accountability in officiating. They get paid to do the games--not much mind you--but the average worker doesn't get to consistently make major mistakes at their place of work without consequences. Watch the videos and see for yourself. I have been an advocate for penalization for blown calls. You miss so many, your pay gets docked. With no more accountability with what is out there, changes aren't going to be made.

I hear coaches take the high road time and time again when they say "we didn't lose tonight because of the refs,"' but that's not always the case. And to be clear, I will commend Butler County for their toughness and effort, and they refused to go away. They took advantage of an opportunity and they won. It was a crazy comeback, however, few fans of any team would agree a foul should have been charged to Shelby on that play. It changed the game, and that's not on Shelby, nor on our younger players.

I am also not accusing the officials for trying to sway anything towards Butler County. Butler County fans will tell you they didn't get the calls here, there, or wherever, just like any fan base. All fan bases see the games as they want to see it. I'm pointing out that officiating has gotten worse over the years and it matters to the players, the schools, and their fan bases.

Opposing fans will probably laugh at my opinions, and again, that's okay. The likelihood of anything changing is slim. The coaches and school system are hesitant to criticize officials too much, and I understand why. A very wise man once told me, "Life is about bounces. Sometimes the bounce goes your way, sometimes it goes against you." It's hard not to share an opinion when it seems the guys in the striped shirts are constantly altering the bounce.

Edmonson County was led by Sowders with 12 points and 10 rebounds, Williams had 10 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 blocks. Addison Spainhoward added 8 points and 9 rebounds, Hayley Hill had 8 points, Sanders had 4, and Jocelyn Decker had 2.

​Butler County outscored the Lady Cats 21-9 in the final quarter.

The good news for the Lady Cats is that they get an opportunity to play in another region tournament. The draw is set for Saturday morning and Edmonson County will either play on Monday or Tuesday. Being in the district loser bracket, they will face a district winner, which will either be Daviess, Breckinridge, or McLean County

Edmonson Voice Sports, Gabe DeArmond, photos:
Hot three-point shooting and better execution from the Trinity Raiders propelled them over the higher-seeded Wildcats on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 in the first round of the District 12 Tournament, hosted at Butler County High School.

Trinity shot 67% from behind the arc on 10 of15 made three-pointers, and shot 51% from the field for the game. The staggering difference of fouls called in the game was significant, with Trinity shooting 46 free throws compared to Edmonson County's 15 attempts. Three Wildcats fouled out of the contest.

Edmonson shot 34% from the field on 23-67 shooting and only 5 of 19 from three-point range (26%). 

Edmonson County was led by senior Ty Wilson's 14 points and 8 rebounds, senior Blayne Deweese added 12 points and 10 rebounds, senior Owen Ruth had 11 points and 4 rebounds, junior Braden Wright had 10 points and 9 rebounds, Aiden Meredith added 9 points, senior Daylen Cook had 6, and Jonah Massey had 2.

​The Wildcats end their season with a record of 15-9.

Edmonson Voice Sports: Gabe DeArmond, photos:
The Lady Cats will have an opportunity to repeat as District 12 Champions after defeating the Trinity Lady Raiders 66-49 in the first round of the district tournament on Monday night, hosted at Butler County High School. 

After a bit of a sluggish start, the Lady Cats found their pace late in the first quarter and jumped out to a 20-9 lead. Trinity concentrated on clogging the inside and keeping Edmonson's top scorer Cariann Williams at bay, as they held her to only 4 first half points. Shelby Sowders and Addison Spainhoward found early success from outside shooting and mid range jumpers in the first half, however, Trinity found some momentum and was able to draw a foul on a final three-point attempt with two seconds left in the half and made all three free throws. Edmonson County led 32-26 at halftime. 

Those three would set the tone for the rest of the game, as they powered through the physical play from the Lady Raiders in the second half. Williams finished with 21 points and 23 rebounds, Sowders also had 21 points while adding 8 rebounds, as Spainhoward added 16 points and 6 rebounds.

Both Hayley Sanders and Haley Hill added 4 points each. 

Edmonson County crushed Trinity on the boards 47-25 and shot 24-63 from the field for 38%. 

The Lady Cats are now 20-7 on the year, ending Trinity's season at 15-15. 

The Lady Cats will take on Butler County, (12-14) who upset Grayson County (20-8) in the first round, on Thursday night at 7PM for the championship. 

Edmonson Voice Sports: Gabe DeArmond, photos:
Senior Cariann Williams shared an emotional moment with a big crowd at ECHS last night against Butler County as she celebrated her 2000th point and 1500th rebound in the same game. The impressive stats move her up to number four on the all-time scoring leader list for Lady Cat basketball, just behind Madison Rich, Stephanie Dennison, and Caitlin (Simon) Caudill. 

Williams received a standing ovation upon the announcement of her stats during last night's games. She was hugged by teammates as she wiped tears from her eyes. She finished the game with 24 points and 18 rebounds as the Lady Cats won 58-40 over the visiting Lady Bears. 

Senior Leilani Powell was also honored as the other senior Lady Cat during senior night ceremonies. 

Junior Shelby Sowders finished with 15 points and 6 rebounds, Jocelyn Decker had 8 points, Addison Spainhoward added 6 points, Hayley Sanders had 3, and Powell finished with 2 points.

The Lady Cats secured the number one seed in the upcoming District 12 Tournament, which will be hosted by Butler County on February 23rd. 

​They are now 14-6 on the season. 

Edmonson Voice Sports: Gabe DeArmond, photos:
The Wildcats had little trouble with the struggling Bears of Butler County, who are now 1-20 on the season, and it was senior Ty Wilson leading the way for Edmonson County with 26 points on Friday, February 6, 2026.

Edmonson County honored seniors Tanner Bates, Daylen Cook, Blayne Deweese, Blake Head, Tristen Muse, Owen Ruth, and Ty Wilson, as they were all recognized with their families last night.

In addition to Wilson's performance, sophomore Jonah Massey had 24 points for Edmonson County. Deweese had 8, Cook and Aiden Meredith each had 7, Braden Wright had 6, and Ruth and Head each had 2 points.

The Wildcats improved to 12-5 on the season and will have the two seed in the District 12 Tournament, hosted by Butler County beginning February 24th. They will face Trinity High School in the first round.

Gabe DeArmond, photos:
It was a special night for seventeen seniors at ECHS on Basketball Senior Night, 2026.

The following seniors and their families were honored between the Lady Cat and Wildcat games against Butler County, where both Edmonson teams earned victories:

• Sydney Blanton
• Lola Bolton
• Sarah Lancaster
• Emma Lindsey
• Lola Ramsey
• Macy Treece
• Peyton Weedman
• Brooklynn Wilson
• Leilani Powell
• Cariann Williams
• Tanner Bates
• Daylen Cook
• Blayne Deweese
• Blake Head
• Tristen Muse
• Owen Ruth
• Tyler Wilson

Darren Doyle, story:
The Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame (KHSBHF) is bringing one of its 2025-26 “GLORY ROAD/HERITAGE GAMES” to Edmonson County High School this Friday, February 6th. The project recognizes and honors the many gymnasiums and games across Kentucky that have historical significance in the development of the cultural phenomenon of Kentucky high school basketball.

The Glory Road designation was made available much in part from Edmonson County native Scott Lindsey, Vice President of Rafferty's Restaurants. Lindsey paved the way for a similar memorial plaque as pictured above to be placed at Edmonson County High School.

The project will honor iconic gymnasiums along with the schools and communities that built them and are designed to highlight longstanding rivalries across Kentucky, along with notable teams throughout the history of high school basketball teams in Kentucky. 

Even though the current gym at ECHS was not the home site for the 1976 KY State Champion Wildcats, Edmonson County was recently named a Glory Road site due to the significance of the team's monumental achievement 50 years ago this March. The Wildcats are said to be the team that "saved the Sweet Sixteen." Their ultimate victory convinced the powers that be that a small school was still capable of winning one, large format tournament. Besides Delaware, Kentucky is the only state in America with a single class tournament. The rest are multi-class tournaments based on population size.

As part of the Glory Road game, members of the 1976 State Champion Wildcats will be honored during the games on Friday night, to commemorate their 50th anniversary. 

Edmonson Voice Sports: Gabe DeArmond, photos:
Edmonson County must have been destined for wins last night for both the boys' and girls' basketball teams against the Trinity Raiders of Whitesville. Each team won with the exact same score, 73-56 for a couple of District 12 wins.

The Lady Cats got started a bit slow but were able to create a little more space as the game went on. 

Edmonson was led by Cariann Williams with 26 points and 11 rebounds. Shelby Sowders added 16 points and 5 rebounds, Addison Spainhoward had 12 points, Hayley Sanders had 10, Jocelyn Decker added 8, and Harper Davis had one point.

The Lady Cats improve to 13-6 on the season.

The boys took the court with hopes of spoiling yet another homecoming ceremony as they did against Butler County a couple weeks ago and had little trouble doing so. 

The game was another physical and sometimes testy match, with two technical fouls and an intentional foul called which resulted in the ejection of Trinity's guard Cale Boarman. Boarman was also assessed a technical foul at the end of the game earlier in the year at ECHS in the final seconds, blowing any chance for a Trinity comeback in Edmonson County's 76-71 win on January 8th.

The Wildcats fought through elbows and shoves to earn their 11th win of the season. They were led by Blayne Deweese's 20 points and 11 rebounds. Braden Wright had 16 points and 10 rebounds, Ty Wilson had 12 points, Jonah Massey added 10, Aiden Meredith had 9, while Owen Ruth and Daylen Cook added 3 points each. 

Edmonson Voice Sports: Gabe DeArmond, photos:
The Lady Cats and Wildcats split games against their District 12 foe Grayson County in Leitchfield Friday, January 23rd. The girls' game came down to the final play that ended in Edmonson's favor.

The game was back and forth throughout the entire contest with each team swapping leads multiple times. Edmonson County had possession with under a minute and two-point lead but the in-bounds pass was bobbled and turned over. Grayson got the ball on their end of the court as the Lady Cats turned up their defense. The Lady Cougars were forced to pass the ball around and didn't even get a shot off as the clock expired. 

Edmonson County was led by Cariann Williams with 15 points and 5 rebounds, Addison Spainhoward had 13 points and 4 rebounds, Shelby Sowders had 11 points and 8 rebounds, Haley Hill added 6 points, and Hayley Sanders had 3. 

The Lady Cats are now 12-6 on the season and 3-1 in District 12 play. They are scheduled to take on Daviess County on the road Monday if weather permits.

It was a different story for the Wildcats tonight as they struggled mightily against the Cougars, falling 83-44.

Edmonson County got off to a horrible start and trailed by 33 at halftime, due much in part to Grayson County's blistering 69% shooting from the field. The hole was too deep for the Cats to dig out of in the lopsided loss.

Edmonson County was led by Braden Wright's 17 points and 8 rebounds. Tyler Wilson had 10, Daylen Cook had 7, Owen Ruth had 4, and Blayne Deweese, Aidan Meredith, and Jonah Massey each had 2 points.

The Wildcats fall to 10-5 on the year and are scheduled to play Daviess County away on Monday, weather permitting. They are 2-2 in District 12 play.

Edmonson Voice Sports: Gabe DeArmond photos:
Butler County's homecoming ceremony didn't shine as bright as Lady Bear and Bear fans had hoped as the traveling Lady Cats and Wildcats put a damper on things with two big Edmonson County district wins.

The Wildcats jumped into the fast lane and went "hammer down," right out of the gate, as they finished the first quarter with a 29-13 lead. Daylen Cook's lob pass from outside the three-point line to a flying Ty Wilson in the first ended in a two-handed jam that got Cats fans on their feet.

Edmonson led by 19 at the half. Despite a big third quarter run by Butler County where they shot 9/12 from the field (75%) which included four 3-pointers that cut the lead to 7, Edmonson County was able to stretch the lead back out for a big 84-58 win. 

Tyler Wilson led the offense with 23 points and 6 rebounds, Cook had 15, all three-pointers, Braden Wright had 15, Blayne Deweese scored 13 points, Owen Ruth had 7, Aidan Meredith had 4, Sawyer Simmons had 3, and Jonah Massey and Eli Prunty each had 2.

The girls fought through a very physical and determined Lady Bears team in their 49-32 win. Butler County is ranked #8 in the state in team rebounds and the Lady Cats knew it would be a challenge to keep them off the glass, however, the girls rose to the occasion and out-rebounded them 37-32, which is seven below Butler's average. 

Cold shooting hindered the Lady Cats during the first half, making only 31% of their shots, but Butler County was even colder, shooting only 25%. Edmonson only led 21-19 at the half. A big third quarter run helped get Edmonson in the fast lane with three consecutive three-pointers and a seven-point lead going into the fourth, where they held on to win.

Edmonson was led by Cariann Williams with 20 points and 14 rebounds, Addison Spainhoward had 9 points and 5 rebounds, Shelby Sowders had 7 points and 12 rebounds, Jocelyn Decker had 7 points and 3 rebounds, and Haley Hill had 3 points.

The Lady Cats are now 10-5 on the season and have won their last four games. They are scheduled to take on McLean County today in Muhlenberg County at the Farmer's Bank and Trust Lady Mustangs Classic at noon. 

Edmonson Voice Sports: Gabe DeArmond, photos:
It was not the ending that Trinity High School (Whitesville) was looking for as they made the long trek to Edmonson County High School on January 9th as they fell victim to the high-flying Wildcats on Edmonson's homecoming night.

While it may have been a stretch down the stretch for a Trinity win, the Raiders' comeback effort was in full force until an ill-advised move from a Trinity player with 4 seconds left. 

After a Raider bucket with 10 seconds left in the game to cut the Cats' lead to 75-71, Trinity's Cale Boarman slapped the ball into the bleachers. The clock kept ticking. For some reason, he then picked up the ball and tossed it toward the sidelines. With 4.1 seconds remaining, he was assessed a technical foul for the toss, which snuffed out any hope of a miracle comeback. 

Aside from that, Edmonson's Tyler Wilson just landed from flying high above the rim. His career-high 32 points led the Wildcats in a tough district match that will surely fire up the Raiders for a rematch at their place in just a few weeks. The highlight of the night came just shortly into the fourth quarter when senior Owen Ruth grabbed a steal, passed to Braden Wright, who then tossed the perfect lob pass to Wilson as he posterized Trinity's Grant Howard  with a two-handed slam in front of a cheering student section.

Trinity trailed as much as 10 throughout the game, but refusing to quit, the scrappy, gutsy, and physical team powered their way back and cut the Cats' lead to only 70-69 with 34 seconds left. Wilson was able to get an and-one on an in-bounds play where he sealed off his man and was able to score under the basket.

Behind Wilson was another exceptional game from junior Braden Wright, who scored 22 and grabbed 9 rebounds. Blayne Deweese added 12 points and 6 rebounds, Jonah Massey had 6 points, and Aiden Meredith had 2 points. 

The Cats held on for a 76-71 win.

Edmonson Voice Sports: Gabe DeArmond, photos:
The Lady Cats took care of business over a scrappy Trinity Lady Raiders team (Whitesville) on Friday, January 9th, for the 2026 basketball homecoming with a 59-41 win.

Edmonson County started ice cold, going 0-for-9 early in the first quarter but with help from junior guard Shelby Sowders (22 points and 8 rebounds), they were able to tie the score at 16 going into the second.

A huge defensive quarter from the Lady Cats help them outscore the Lady Raiders 20-6 in the second quarter, which sealed the deal for a homecoming win.

In addition to Sowders' high scoring, Cariann Williams finished with 20 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 blocked shots.

Addison Spainhoward finished with 12 points and 5 rebounds, Jocelyn Decker added 2, Haley Hill had 2, and Ani Powell added one point.

Darren Doyle, story: Gabe DeArmond, photo:
This year marked the 25th consecutive year for Rafferty's Restaurants sponsoring all of a community staple in Edmonson County, the annual Caveland Classic boys and girls basketball tournament, held at ECHS.

The Classic was first held during the 1990-91 season, under the direction of Gary Meredith. Teams not only from multiple states came to compete in the event, but also teams as far as Australia made the journey to ECHS. Clinics, dinners, and contests were parts of the event, along with guest speakers like Joe B. Hall, Kyle Macy, and Doug Flynn were part of the tournament.

After a brief hiatus, Edmonson County native and former Wildcat Scott Lindsey, now Senior Vice President of Rafferty's, had the idea to bring the Caveland Classic back on a bit of a simpler scale and focusing on area teams. Lindsey led the way by ensuring funding and food would be provided by Rafferty's.

Edmonson County High School recognized Lindsey's efforts at yesterday's game by honoring him while Lindsey presented the ceremonial check to ECHS AD Kyle Pierce to a standing ovation. While Rafferty's, Double Dogs, and Montana Grill are located outside of Edmonson County, with their heavy support over the last 25 years, they seem as hometown as can be to so many Edmonson County families and programs. 

Gabe DeArmond, photos:
A team effort led to a win over Breckinridge County in day two of the Rafferty's/Double Dogs Caveland Classic with nine different Wildcats earning spots in the scoring book and four Cats earning double figures.

The Wildcats jumped out early with transition buckets and easy looks around the rim. They led 46-28 at the half. Despite a tough comeback effort by the Tigers in the fourth quarter, as they cut the lead to single digits, the Cats were able to hold on for an 83-73 win.

It was the right night for Braden Wright, who led the way early with 15 points in the first half and finished with 23 points and 5 rebounds. Blayne Deweese notched a double-double with 15 points and 13 rebounds. Aidan Meredith and Owen Ruth each added 11 points while Tyler Wilson put up 7, Daylen Cook and Jonah Massey each added 5, and Sawyer Simmons and Blake Head had 3 apiece.

The Cats have won four consecutive games and are now 6-3 on the season. They are scheduled to take on Clinton County at home today at 5PM for the final day of the Raffery's/Double Dogs Caveland Classic. 

Gabe DeArmond, photos:
The Lady Cats notched a 63-51 win over Glasgow on the second day of the Rafferty's/Double Dogs Caveland Classic, held at Edmonson County High School with impressive performances from point guard Shelby Sowders and forward/center Cariann Williams. 

Sowders led the offense with 25 points while Williams narrowly missed a triple-double with 22 points, 17 rebounds, and 9 blocks. Seventh-grader Jocelyn Decker added 8 points, Addison Spainhoward had 5, while Hayley Sanders and Leighton Kinser each added 2.

Edmonson County is now 6-4 on the season. They are scheduled to take on Taylor County (9-1) today on the final day of the Caveland Classic.

Photo by Gabe DeArmond:
The gym floor at ECHS was dedicated tonight at the Rafferty's/Double Dogs Caveland Classic as the Bowman "Bo" Davenport Court, in honor of the legendary coach that led the Wildcats to the 1976 State Championship 50 years ago.

During his 32 coaching career, he spent 7 of those seasons at ECHS and won a total of 526 games.

Members of the 1976 team were present tonight, along with cheer and staff members, in addition to current Board of Education personnel, as the court was dedicated to a standing ovation at ECHS.

The Edmonson Voice is currently producing a documentary of the 1976 championship team with interviews with players and personnel that will be released in February.