CUBA – Cuba High School’s boy’s basketball team wrapped up action in 2025 on Dec. 19 after competing in three games in the 64th Annual Legends Bank Holiday Classic Tournament in Linn. The Wildcats lost the first two games against Fatima and Eldon before defeating Linn on the final day of the tournament. One Wildcat was recognized for his performance by coaches, athletic directors and tournament organizers.

Junior Braden Gipson was named to the All-Tournament team for his performance throughout the three games. Gipson averaged 16 points, three assists and three steals per game during the tournament. 

He played his best game of the tournament and the season on Dec. 19 versus Linn when he poured in 28 points, dished out three assists and swiped four steals. He scored 14 points in the first quarter, outscoring Linn’s entire team in the frame. Gipson, Cuba’s only returning starter from last year’s team, is the Wildcat’s leading scorer and assist man this season for an inexperienced team that’s hoping to ascend as the season progresses.

Sophomore forward Caleb Brown wasn’t on the All-Tournament team, but deserves to be mentioned for his prowess during the tournament and throughout the season. Brown has emerged as a consistent scorer and rebounder in Cuba’s front court and averaged close to 11 points and seven rebounds per game during the tournament in Linn. 

The Wildcats are 2-8 on the season, but have been competitive in every game but one. The exclusion is from their second game of the season against a talented West Memphis team that won seven games in a row. 

With more than half of the season still remaining, the Wildcats have time to find their rhythm before districts begin in early March. Cuba returned just four players with varsity experience for this season so it’s been a learning experience on the fly for many Wildcats. Head coach DJ Dace hasn’t finished under .500 during his five previous seasons as head coach and hopes that his team will refocus during Christmas break and turn those close losses into wins. 

The Wildcats will begin 2026 with a pair of road games on Jan. 6 and Jan. 9 in Sullivan and Hermann respectively. Cuba will host New Haven on Jan. 12 before playing the next night on Jan. 13 in St. James. The Wildcats will host Belle on Jan. 17 for ‘Pink Out Night’ to support breast cancer awareness.