The 2025 Texas UIL Girls Basketball State Semifinals are set to ignite passion and competition as teams across various classes vie for state title glory. Fans and players alike are eagerly awaiting the thrilling matchups scheduled for February 24 and beyond, marking the progress of talented high school teams through the tournament's intense framework.
This year is uniquely crafted, with UIL splitting the playoff bracket between Division I and Division II, reminiscent of the successful formats used for UIL football. Among the standout matchups is the highly anticipated battle between Plano East and Cedar Hill, both of whom are making significant strides toward potential championships. Plano East, with its record of 25-13, and Cedar Hill, with 28 wins to their name, will compete for supremacy at the Wilkerson-Greines Activity Center. The game is set for 6:30 PM on Tuesday, February 24.
Plano East has had unprecedented success this season, marking their first-ever state tournament appearance since the school opened its doors back in 1981. Led by head coach Derrick Richardson, the Panthers secured their place by defeating North Crowley 49-45 last Thursday. Central to their impressive performance has been freshman sensation Arianna Robinson, who scored 28 points during the regional final and has averaged around 22 points per game, complemented by 6 rebounds and 3 steals. Sophomore Kennedy Borders and senior Sema Udo have contributed significantly with their scoring, giving the Panthers the offensive edge they need to reach this level of competition.
Across the court stands Cedar Hill, entering the semifinals with confidence after defeating defending state champions Duncanville with a score of 57-47. This victory marks their return to the state arena for the first time since 2010. With head coach Nicole Collins at the helm, the Longhorns are eager to capitalize on their current momentum. Senior captain Makiyah Risby is pivotal, alongside her teammates Rylan Jones, Trinity Thomas, and Brooklyn King, who have provided leadership throughout the tournament.
But the details of this state's semifinals extend beyond just one game. The championship rounds will witness 12 total games across various classifications, from Class 1A to Class 6A. For example, the Class 5A semifinals promise intense action as Denton Ryan (30-7) faces Red Oak (30-7) at Hebron High School, and another matchup between Georgetown and San Antonio Wagner is sure to draw significant attention.
Each game is not only about individual accomplishments but also about the legacy each team aims to establish within their local communities. The excitement builds across Texas, and every matchup brings the schools closer to their dreams of holding the championship trophy, set to take place at the Alamodome from March 1-3. For many, it's about more than just advancing; it's about creating memories and fostering school spirit during these formative years.
For fans following the tournament, checking brackets and matchup scores is now easier, with regular updates available via High School On SI Texas. This kind of access allows supporters to remain engaged with the progress of their favorite teams and witness the thrills this season brings.
With so many layers of excitement, the UIL Girls Basketball State Semifinals stand as more than just games—they represent the hard work, dedication, and tenacity of young athletes who have trained tirelessly to achieve this stage. And as teams prepare to face off, every player knows they are fighting for history, underscored by the sentiment: both teams are fighting to make history, but only one will advance to the championship game.
With the clock ticking down, the anticipation is palpable. Texas is ready for high-caliber basketball, and as this weekend approaches, it's anyone's game. Fans are encouraged to come out and support their teams, as the UIL state tournament brings communities together, fostering not just competitiveness but also camaraderie as they rally behind their local stars.