Short but sweet.

The opening event for the 810 Varsity Showcases will be just two games, but two legit top games as three of the top five teams in the 810 Varsity Top 25 - Oak Park vs Grandview, plus Staley vs Springfield Central. The two-game event will start at 6 pm next Saturday at Oak Park.

"We looked to have four games in the opening event, but due to this and that, it was condensed to two games - but two VERY good games," touted 810 Varsity's Chad Rader.

Staley returns after fielding one of the top lineups in Kansas City history with three seniors moving onto Division I schools and winning the Missouri Class 6 title. The cupboard isn't bare with 6-foot-7 junior Xavier Wilson, as well as point guart Avian Webb, a transfer from North Kansas City.

The Bulldogs feature a strong class of 2025s, including junior guards Keion Epps, Devin Sanford and Tayshawn Wells, and 6-foot-6 forwards Bryce Walker. 

"Saturday will be a great environment, especially for Staley and Oak Park and district to have an event and have both teams right there in great games," stated Staley head coach Chris Neff.

The nightcap at 7:30 pm will pit No. 1 Oak Park vs No. 3 Grandview. 

Oak Park features 810 Varsity all-Metro first-teamer Corbin Allen, a 6-foot-5 junior guard, offered by Oklahoma State, UMKC and others. Fellow juniors Caleb Estes and Zeek Brown - a transfer via Free State - also are among the backcourt, while 6-foot-8 senior Deng Gak offers an inside presence.

Grandview starts a backcourt of Josiah Kirkwood (16 ppg) and transfer Michael Smith Jr, who averaged 18.3 ppg at Hogan Prep last year. Seniors Cobi Johnson, a 6-foot-6 forward, and Aiden Lee also bring experience. 

Among those before the season who won't be playing will be Antonio Starks-Fewell, who transferred from Springfield Central before the season.

810 Varsity Showcase 31
Saturday, December 2
Oak Park HS

6 pm: Staley vs Springfield Central
7:30 pm: Oak Park vs Grandview

Bold: Home team

Admission

Adults: $7
Students: $5

Cash and Venmo accepted at the gate

Credit card - below