The SoBoCo Eagles boys basketball team played Dixon on Tuesday evening (see bocojo.com for results) in the first round of the Class 3, District 9 basketball tournament.

The Eagles are attempting to repeat their district title from last year, when they defeated Blair Oaks at Blair Oaks.

Along with the top-seeded Falcons, teams from St. James and Father Tolton are among the top seeds.

The Eagles are led by top scorers junior Sam Stichnote and sophomore Rece Gilmore, however, coach Andy Jahnsen says the Eagles seniors, including Seth Mueller, left, being fouled during a shot in a recent win over Hallsville, have spurred the Eagles to their 18-7 season.

“We had a strong group of seniors, most of whom had not had a lot of varsity playing time, and they stepped up, accepted their roles and played well and are leaders on this team,” Jahnsen said.