Castlewood, Hamlin Among Top Area Teams Heading to State Basketball Tournaments

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Several top boys basketball teams from the Aberdeen area, including defending state champions Castlewood in Class B and Class A runner-up Hamlin, are set to compete in the 2026 South Dakota state basketball tournaments. The teams, which also include Class AA Watertown, are aiming to build on their regular season success and make deep runs in the state championships.

Why it matters

High school basketball is a major source of community pride in many South Dakota towns, and the state tournaments represent the pinnacle of the season. The performance of local teams at the state level can have a significant impact on morale and excitement within their respective communities.

The details

Castlewood is the defending Class B state champion, while Hamlin was the runner-up in Class A last year. Both teams will look to build on that success and make another strong showing at the 2026 state tournaments. Watertown, a Class AA school, is also expected to be a contender after a solid regular season. Several other area Class A and B teams will join them in seeking state titles.

• The 2026 South Dakota state basketball tournaments are scheduled for March 2026.