As the 2024-25 UIL basketball season tipped off, many across Texas knew that the Judson Rockets, hailing from Converse, TX, would be a formidable contender.
After all, the team is fresh off a remarkable five-year streak of reaching the State Tournament from 2017 to 2021, and they’ve continued to prove themselves as a top-tier program.
Entering the new year, Judson has exceeded even the highest of expectations.
The Rockets have been nothing short of dominant, posting an impressive 26-1 record, with a perfect 5-0 mark in District 29-6A play. They began January with two crucial district victories: a nail-biting 43-40 win over fellow contender Cibolo Steele, followed by a commanding 63-27 triumph over San Marcos.
This hot start was on the heels of a successful showing at the M.T. Rice Tournament to cap off December, where they clinched the championship by defeating (who else?) Cibolo Steele, 56-47.
A large part of Judson’s continued success can be credited to Coach Christina Camacho, who boasts 808 career wins and a wealth of experience.
Under her leadership, the Rockets have thrived, thanks in no small part to standout players like Kayla King and Delaney Arredondo.
King, a senior combo-guard committed to the University of Houston, is a perennial candidate for District MVP honors and has earned TABC All-State recognition. Her leadership on and off the court has been invaluable to the team’s success.
Meanwhile, Arredondo, a nationally-recognized point guard in the Class of 2026, continues to make a name for herself. Recently surpassing the 1,000-point milestone for her career, Arredondo has already attracted offers from multiple collegiate programs, including New Mexico State, UTSA, South Alabama, Tarleton, and Abilene Christian. Her rise in the basketball world shows no signs of slowing down.
While much of the attention revolves around King and Arredondo, the Rockets' success is a result of contributions from across the roster. Juniors like Cora Bennett (offers from Cal, UNT, Wichita State, Rice, etc.), as well as seniors such as Korina Garcia, have played vital roles in the team’s depth.
This well-rounded effort has powered Judson to the top of both the local and state rankings, including a No. 1 spot in the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC) 6A Girls division.
Judson's journey to this point has not been without setbacks.
Last year, the Rockets experienced an early-round exit in the playoffs against Brandeis, a result that left a sour taste for the team. However, the momentum they’ve built this season, combined with their track record of success, suggests that bigger things may be on the horizon.
Judson has reached the State Tournament five times, with their crowning achievement coming in 2019 when they captured the 6A Girls Basketball State Championship with a 49-46 victory over DeSoto.
As they continue to build on this momentum, one question remains: Will this be the season the Rockets claim their second state title?