Local Hoops Stars Shine with All-State Honors

The postseason accolades continue to roll in for a pair of standout basketball players from the Clarence Cannon Conference. Palmyra senior Candra King and South Shelby junior Callie McWilliams were both named to the prestigious Missouri Basketball Coaches Association Class 3 all-state team, cementing their status among the elite prep players in the state.

For King, the all-state selection marks the second time in her illustrious high school career that she has received this honor. The 6-foot power forward was a dominant force in the paint for the Palmyra Panthers, averaging a double-double with 13.2 points and 6.9 rebounds per game. Despite missing a few games late in the season due to an ankle injury, King’s efficiency and production could not be denied, as she shot a blistering 55.2% from the field.

King’s impact on the hardwood has been matched by her success in other athletic pursuits. A three-time state champion in the discus and shot put, she has signed to compete in track and field at the Division I level with Iowa State University next year.

On the other side of the all-state ledger is McWilliams, a 5-foot-6 guard who has been the driving force behind South Shelby’s recent run of success. As a junior this past season, McWilliams led the Lady Birds to their third consecutive district championship and a state quarterfinal appearance. Her stellar all-around game was on full display, as she paced the team in scoring (15.5 ppg), steals (4.9 spg), and assists (4.2 apg), while also grabbing 5.8 rebounds per contest.

McWilliams’ ability to fill up the stat sheet was particularly evident from beyond the arc, where she tied for the team lead with 35 three-pointers made. Her consistent scoring punch and lockdown defense played a pivotal role in South Shelby’s impressive 23-7 campaign.

The all-state duo was joined on the 20-player Class 3 squad by a pair of standouts from Centralia High School, Braylin Brunkhorst and Ryenn Gordon. The talented twosome helped lead the Panthers to a third-place finish at the Class 3 state tournament.

For King and McWilliams, their all-state selections are a testament to their hard work, dedication, and immense talent on the basketball court. As they look ahead to their future endeavors, whether at the collegiate level or potentially beyond, these young phenoms have already etched their names in the annals of Missouri high school basketball history.