The prep basketball postseason in Montana kicks into high gear today, with district and divisional tournaments unfolding across the state. While Class AA teams will wait a bit longer, the remaining classifications are fully underway. Class C, which began district play last week, began today. At the Northern C in Great Falls, the Belt and Chester‑Joplin‑Inverness boys entered as tournament favorites. Over in Lewistown at the Southern C, Winnett–Grass Range ranks among the top contenders. Meanwhile, St. Regis looks to keep its unbeaten season alive at the Western C in Butte, with Lincoln entering the bracket with just a single loss.
On the girls’ side, Chester‑Joplin‑Inverness and Belt lead the field at the Northern C. The Southern C in Lewistown features a deep and competitive lineup, including top‑ranked and undefeated Denton–Geyser–Stanford–Geraldine, who face strong pressure from fourth‑ranked Melstone. Out west, West Yellowstone and Shields Valley bring top‑ten credentials to the Western C. The Eastern C tournament will follow next week in Miles City, with two teams advancing from each regional event.
The Lady Spartans of Baker, unbeaten and top‑ranked, headline District 3B in Colstrip, where defending State B champion Huntley Project has also secured a first‑round bye. Six District B tournaments take place statewide, with the 6B in Anaconda showcasing third‑ranked Missoula Loyola and fourth‑ranked Florence—both earning byes as well. At the 2B tournament, undefeated and second‑ranked Glasgow enjoys a first‑round bye, while seventh‑ranked Malta steps in as host.
On the boys’ side, the District 1B bracket in Cut Bank is stacked with ranked talent. Second‑ranked Fairfield joins fifth‑ranked Fort Benton and sixth‑ranked Choteau in a competitive field. Top‑ranked Lodge Grass aims to keep its undefeated season intact at the District 3B in Colstrip, while tenth‑ranked Missoula Loyola begins its campaign for a three‑peat at the 6B in Anaconda. Class B district action opened today, and the Eastern A Divisional tips off Thursday at the First Interstate Bank Arena at MetraPark.
