Scottsbluff Uses Fast Start to Win Class B State Championship

For the first time since 2012, the Scottsbluff boys basketball team are state champions.

March 15, 2026Updated: March 15, 2026
By Brandon Shanahan

LINCOLN, Neb. — For the first time since 2012, the Scottsbluff boys basketball team are state champions.

Both teams propelled into the finals after upset wins in the semi-finals. Elkhorn North had the tall task of upending #1 Omaha Skutt and needed overtime to do so, winning 59-57. Scottsbluff fended off #2 Norris 64-60 to punch their ticket to the championship. 

The Bearcats used a quick start to take a 21-10 in the 1st quarter. They would go shot for shot with Elkhorn North over the course of the rest of the game. Scottsbluff was able to ride the hot start the rest of the game to cruise to a 68-56 win. The Bearcats were led by Rylee Meininger and Nate Kelley who combined for 45 of Scottsbluff’s 68 points scoring 23 and 22 respectively. 

Scottsbluff caps off their title run with a 24-4 record on the season.