SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS
Eli Benning WICHITA NORTHWEST
Samiyah Ellis WICHITA HEIGHTS
Aliyah Green ANDOVER
Terrell King HUTCHINSON
Sebastian Hines-Turner WICHITA COLLEGIATE
ALL-
PRESEASON BOYS
WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL
First Team
Eli Benning, Wichita Northwest
Corbin Johnson, Kapaun Mount Carmel
Terrell King, Hutchinson
Josh Kim, Andover
Amalachi Wilkins, Wichita Heights
Second Team
Auston Baalmann, Andale
D.J. Brown, Wichita Northwest
Jayden Brown, Andover Central
Brayden Myovela, Maize
Chase Robinson, Wichita Heights
WICHITA SMALL SCHOOL
First Team
Luke Albers, Cunningham
Josh Burdick, Cheney
Braxton Creed, Halstead
Reid Friesen, Hesston
Sebastian Hines-Turner, Wichita Collegiate
Second Team
A.J. Batiste, Wichita Collegiate
Kellen Green, Oxford
Cordell Jordan, Oxford
Kaeden Kasselman, Garden Plain
Will Wegerer, Cunningham
SALINA AREA
First Team
Boston Ekart, Sterling
Barrett Moddelmog, Moundridge
Brogan Rowley, Ell-Saline
Gabe Pyle, McPherson
Jack Skocny, Clifton-Clyde
Second Team
Kelan Gruver, Chapman
Gannon Jacobson, SE-Saline
Eli Johnson, Beloit
Cole Pladson, Clay Center
Ty Romero, Elyria Christian
PRESEASON GIRLS
WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL
First Team
Macayla Askew, Derby
Samiyah Ellis, Wichita Heights
Aliyah Green, Andover
Val Norwood, Wellington
Brit Zeka, Wellington
Second Team
Zoey Buckner-Franklin, Kapaun Mount Carmel
Brooke Grimes, Andale
Kennadi Jackson, Wichita Heights
Jaela Thompson, Maize South
Alana Webb, Wichita Southeast
WICHITA SMALL SCHOOL
First Team
Kendall Brueggen, Hesston
Paige Corter, Flinthills
Sienna DeFrain, Haven
Aubrey Pond, South Haven
Zoie Redgate, Attica
Second Team
Belle Burnett, Hutchinson Central Christian Fionna Morgan, Berean Academy
Abby Proctor, Hesston
Emily O’Brien, Remington
Reese Stuhlsatz, Garden Plain
SALINA AREA
First Team
Carlie Brummer, Beloit-St. John’s
Suttyn Harris, Inman
Anna Jueneman, Hanover
Cammi Unruh, Moundridge
Sevy Wurtz, Clifton-Clyde
Second Team
Katja Blanchat, Smoky Valley
Addison Budke, Beloit
Arika Feldman, Little River
Rori Miles, Bennington
Addy Patrick, Moundridge
PRESEASON BOYS
WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL
1. Kapaun Mount Carmel
2. Wichita Heights
3. Wichita Northwest
4. Andover
5. Maize South
6. Andover Central
7. Andale
8. Maize
9. Hutchinson
10. Derby
WICHITA SMALL SCHOOL
1. Wichita Collegiate
2. Cheney
3. Hesston
4. Cunningham
5. Haven
6. Wichita Trinity
7. Oxford
8. Garden Plain
9. Central-Burden
10. Conway Springs
SALINA AREA
1. McPherson
2. Moundridge
3. Beloit
4. SE-Saline
5. Salina Sacred Heart
6. Sterling
7. Abilene
8. Beloit
9. Clifton-Clyde
10. Beloit-St. John’s
RANKINGS
PRESEASON GIRLS
WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL
1. Wellington
2. Derby
3. Maize South
4. Andover
5. Wichita Heights
6. Bishop Carroll
7. Andale
8. Clearwater
9. Wichita Southeast
10. Kapaun Mount Carmel
WICHITA SMALL SCHOOL
1. Hesston
2. Cheney
3. Berean Academy
4. South Haven
5. Hutchinson Central Christian
6. Haven
7. Remington
8. Attica
9. Halstead
10. Norwich
SALINA AREA
1. McPherson
2. Little River
3. Hanover
4. Hillsboro
5. Clifton-Clyde
6. SE-Saline
7. Beloit
8. Beloit-St. John’s
9. Concordia
10. Moundridge
LEAGUE PRESEASON PREDICTIONS
BOYS
AVCTL Division III
1. McPherson
2. Mulvane
3. Circle
4. Buhler
5. Augusta
6. Winfield
AVCTL Division IV
1. Wichita Collegiate
2. Andale
3. Wellington
4. Rose Hill
5. Clearwater
6. El Dorado
Central Kansas
1. Hesston 2. Pratt 3. Haven
4. Hoisington 5. Hillsboro 6. Halstead
7. Smoky Valley
8. Nickerson
9. Larned
Central Plains
1. Cheney
2. Wichita Trinity
3. Garden Plain
4. Kingman
5. Wichita Independent
6. Medicine Lodge
7. Conway Springs
8. Chaparral
9. Douglass
10. Belle Plaine
GIRLS
AVCTL Division III
1. McPherson
2. Circle
3. Buhler
4. Mulvane
5. Augusta
6. Winfield
AVCTL Division IV
1. Wellington
2. Andale
3. Clearwater
4. Rose Hill
5. Wichita Collegiate
6. El Dorado
Central Kansas
1. Hesston
2. Haven
3. Hillsboro
4. Hoisington
5. Smoky Valley 6. Halstead 7. Pratt
8. Larned 9. Nickerson
Central Plains
1. Cheney
2. Conway Springs
3. Wichita Trinity
4. Garden Plain
5. Wichita Independent
6. Chaparral
7. Kingman
8. Douglass
9. Medicine Lodge
10. Belle Plaine
Greater Wichita Athletic League
1. Kapaun Mount Carmel
2. Wichita Heights
3. Wichita Northwest
4. Wichita East
5. Wichita Southeast
6. Bishop Carroll
7. Wichita South
8. Wichita West
9. Wichita North
Heart of America
1. Moundridge
2. Sterling
3. Berean Academy
4. Ell-Saline
5. Wichita Classical
6. Remington
7. Inman
8. Bennington
9. Marion
10. Sedgwick
11. Hutchinson Trinity
12. Wichita Central Christian
Greater Wichita Athletic League
1. Wichita Heights
2. Bishop Carroll
3. Kapaun Mount Carmel
4. Wichita Southeast
5. Wichita South
6. Wichita East
7. Wichita Northwest
8. Wichita North
9. Wichita West
Heart of America
1. Berean Academy
2. Moundridge
3. Inman
4. Remington
5. Bennington
6. Ell-Saline
7. Wichita Central Christian
8. Marion
9. Sterling
10. Hutchinson Trinity
11. Wichita Classical
12. Sedgwick
North Central Activities Association
1. SE-Saline
2. Salina Sacred Heart
3. Beloit
4. Ellsworth
5. Minneapolis
6. Lyons
7. Republic County
North Central Activities Association
1. SE-Saline
2. Beloit
3. Minneapolis
4. Lyons
5. Ellsworth
6. Salina Sacred Heart
7. Republic County
6A TEAMS TO WATCH
BOYS
After finishing as state runner-up to the undefeated Shawnee Mission Northwest Cougars last season, Wichita Heights is determined to reclaim the state championship under Hall of Fame head coach Joe Auer. The Falcons return four of five starters, including seniors Amalachi Wilkins, Chase Robinson, Aven Mboule, and junior Jalihn Timmons. With this experienced core, the Falcons are poised to compete for both the City League title and another state championship.
For the first time since 2011, Wichita Northwest were back at state thanks to their stellar guard play. After an 18-7 finish and returning one of the best playmaking point guards in the area in senior Eli Benning, and the addition of senior transfers DJ Brown and River Peters, the Grizzlies will be poised for another great season and a potential state berth.
The core of Maize’s basketball team has remained consistent over the past three years, led by seniors Alan Hanna and Alec Grill, along with junior Brayden Myovela. After facing challenges and gaining valuable experience during their early years, the Eagles are poised to emerge as one of the top teams—if not the best—in AVCTL Division I this season.
After a third-place finish in 2023, Derby finished 14-8 in 2024 after ups and downs. The Panthers return three starters, including seniors Jack Ulwelling, Brayden Smith, and Mason Bui. Derby will be guard-heavy again after losing its physical inside force a year ago, so don’t be surprised when the Derby Havoc pressure makes its appearance again.
Wichita East finished their season on a high before falling to the eventual state champion Shawnee Mission Northwest Cougars. The 7-15 Blue Aces defied all odds, winning two overtime playoff games to clinch a state berth. East brings back point guard Ismael Berry and gains a handful of transfers who will look to make an immediate impact.
CLASS 6A PLAYERS TO WATCH
CAMPUS
COLTS
League: AVCTL-1
BOYS
Head Coach: Zac Kliewer, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 24-0
2021: 21-3
2022: 8-13
2023: 7-14
2024: 14-9
Key returning players: Landon Brown, 6-3, sr. G; Hagen Watkins, 6-4, jr. F; Jalen Clark, 6-1, jr. G;
GIRLS
Derby finished fourth place a season ago after a heartbreaking overtime loss in the semifinals to Washburn Rural. The Panthers lost sevens seniors but returned one of the best players in the state in junior Macayla Askew, and a handful of other varsity experienced returners thanks to their up-and-down, five-in-five out style of play.
Wichita Heights will have one of the most exciting teams to watch this season led by seniors Samiyah Ellis, Kennadi Jackson, Heaven Gilbert, Kamyra Barber and Zari Walker. The Falcons who finished 22-3 a season ago have the size, speed and athleticism to beat any team in the state this season.
After making a state appearance in 2023, Wichita Southeast are determined to return this season. Leading the charge is senior Alana Webb, one of the top scorers in the state, who averaged an impressive 17.4 points per game. With Webb at the helm, the Buffaloes are poised for another strong campaign.
Graduating six seniors from a 15-7 team in 2024 is no small challenge. However, with the leadership of four-year letterman Mahogany Butler, Wichita South is well-equipped to navigate the transition. Butler’s experience and presence on the court provide the stability and confidence needed to overcome the growing pains that often accompany such changes.
Wichita East welcomes first-year head coach Willie Davis, returning to East High for his second stint after previously serving six years as the boys’ JV coach. Coach Davis brings valuable experience and a fresh perspective as he leads the team this season. He’ll rely on senior Heylei Davis and a talented junior class to guide the Blue Aces in their quest for a state tournament appearance.
BOYS
Eli Benning, Wichita Northwest
Ismael Berry, Wichita Southeast
D.J. Brown, Wichita Northwest
Alec Grill, Maize
Alan Hanna, Maize
Aven Mboule, Wichita Heights
Brayden Myovela, Maize
River Peters, Wichita Northwest
Chase Robinson, Wichita Heights
Jack Ulwelling, Derby
Amalachi Wilkins, Wichita Heights
GIRLS
Macayla Askew, Derby
Samiyah Ellis, Wichita Heights
Heaven Gilbert, Wichita Heights
Kennadi Jackson, Wichita Heights
Destiny Maze, Wichita Heights
Alana Webb, Wichita Southeast Mahogany Butler, Wichita South
Coach Kliewer says:
“We lost a lot of our varsity team last year with five seniors and our scoring with Kaason Thomas and Andrell Burton going to college. However, we feel that we have a very talented and hardworking young core that we can build on, and a great senior leader in Landon Brown is returning. We might have some growing pains this year, but we are hoping to play our best basketball in March.”
GIRLS League: AVCTL DII
Head Coach: Ron Allan, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 1-19
2021: 4-17
2022: 2-19
2023: 0-20
2024: 0-20
Key returning players: Addy Wood, 5-9, jr, G; Emily Nedeau, 5-8, G; Emmi Cooper, so. 5-6 G;
Coach Allan says:
“We will have some experience returning to our lineup and a few new faces joining them. We hope that some of the chemistry that we developed over the summer carries
over to the winter season.”
DERBY PANTHERS
League: AVCTL-1
BOYS
Head Coach: Brett Flory, 14th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-8
2021: 11-8
2022: 14-8
2023: 18-7
2024: 14-8
Key returning players: Jack
CLASS 6A
Ulwelling, 5-10, sr., G; Brayden Smith, 5-11, sr., G; Mason Bui, 6-1, sr., G; Cayden Titus, 5-11, sr., G; Cale Clingan, 6-7, jr., F;
Coach Flory says:
“We think we can have a team that will be competitive at the state level, but our goal is always simply to have the best program culture in the state. I’m not sure how high our ceiling will be, but I am confident that this team will maximize the talent and potential we have.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Bryan Chadwick, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 21-2
2021: 18-5
2022: 23-2
2023: 22-3
2024: 20-5
Key returning players: Macayla Askew, 6-0, jr., G/F; Maliyah Lansang, 5-6, sr., G; Kallie Rickords, 5-4, sr., G; Aysia Fox, 5-8, so., G;
Coach Chadwick says:
“Despite losing seven seniors from last season, we have plenty of players with varsity experience. With a year under our new system and the league’s adoption of the shot clock, we plan to play an extremely fast-paced game offensively with plenty of defensive pressure.”
MAIZE EAGLES
League: AVCTL-1
BOYS
Head Coach: Chris Grill, 16th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 12-9
2021: 23-2
2022: 18-6
2023: 10-11
2024: 13-9
Key returning players: Brayden
Myovela, 6-3, jr., G; Alec Grill, 6-0, sr., G; Alan Hanna, 6-5, sr., G;
Coach Grill says:
“Our team goals are to take the next step and win a Sub-State Championship and compete for a State Championship.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Shelby Hillman, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-7
2021: 18-3
2022: 11-10
2023: 3-18
2024: 7-14
Key returning players: Adley Pierce, sr., G; Charlotte Kerbs, sr., F; Rylee Fry, sr., F;
Coach Hillman says:
“We have a few veteran players returning and several new faces. Looking forward to coaching these great young ladies who will represent Maize High School.”
WICHITA EAST BLUE ACES
League: GWAL
BOYS
Head Coach: Carlin Whitten, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-11
2021: 11-10
2022: 4-17
2023: 4-17
2024: 7-16
Key returning players: Ismael Berry, 6-3, sr., G; Jaylen Phillips-Grey, 6-5 so., F; Luke Henderson, 5-10, so., G;
Coach Whitten says:
“I feel like we will be a top four tema in our league this year. We return our second leading scorer from last year’s state team in point Guard Ismael Berry and we have one of
Cindy Waggoner, State Farm Agent
the best sophomores in the state in Jaylen Phillips-Grey who transferred from Independent along with our other players who will contribute right away.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Willie Davis, 1st season
Last season’s record: 10-12
Last five seasons:
2020: 7-14
2021: 9-6
2022: 12-9
2023: 11-11
2024: 10-12
Key returning players: Heylei Davis, sr., G; Anaya Davis, jr., G; Anare Smith, jr., G; Sylvia Selmon. 5-6, jr., G;
Coach Davis says:
“We have a team that returns three starters that played a ton of minutes. We should be pretty deep with a lot of girls that are putting in a lot of work this offseason.”
WICHITA HEIGHTS
FALCONS League: GWAL
BOYS
Head Coach: Joe Auer, 30th season
Last season’s record: 23-2
Last five seasons:
2020: 8-13
2021: 15-8
2022: 23-2
2023: 22-3
2024: 23-2
Key returning players: Chase Robinson, 6-4, sr., G; Amalachi Wilkins, 6-8, sr., G; Aven Mboule, 6-0, sr., G; Jalihn Timmons, 6-1, jr., G; K’mari Holt, 6-1, sr., G;
Coach Auer says:
“Heights is pursuing the very rare air in class 6A of four straight state championship games and nine championship Saturdays in the past 17 seasons. Amalachi Wilkins
has a chance to finish his Heights career 2nd to only Perry Ellis in career wins as a starter. Amalachi, Chase Robinson, Aven Mboule, and Jalihn Timmons started 25 games last season and limited opponents to a 39 ppg scoring average. Top reserves K’Mari Holt and Isaiah Carter will expand their roles this season.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Kip Pulliam, 2nd season
Last season’s record:
Last five seasons:
2020: 7-14
2021: 9-6
2022: 12-9
2023: 11-11
2024: 22-3
Key returning players: Samiyah Ellis, 5-8, sr., G; Kennadi Jackson, 5-8, sr., G; Heaven Gilbert, 5-10, sr., F; Kamyra Barber, 5-8, sr., G; Zari Walker, 5-10, sr., G; Destiny Maze, 5-9, so., G;
Coach Pulliam says:
“We have high expectations for this year’s team with a great group of seniors leading the way. With four of five starters returning from a state tournament team, we expect to grow from falling short last year and make a run for a state championship.”
WICHITA NORTH REDHAWKS League: GWAL
BOYS
Head Coach: Michael Bailey, 4th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 2-19
2021: 2-19
2022: 3-18
2023: 2-19
2024: 1-19
Key returning players: Camarion
Thomas, 6-0, sr., G; Ivan Treto, 6-5, sr., F; Adrian Butler, 6-1, sr., G;
Coach Bailey says:
“We are a program looking to change its culture and get more wins this season.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Ryan Smith, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 3-21
2021: 7-13
2022: 4-17
2023: 3-18
2024: 3-18
Key returning players: Izzy Ceballos, sr., G; Charley Hill, jr., G; Sciliesha Shelton, jr., F;
Coach Smith says:
“This is my first season with the Lady Redhawks. I am excited to get the opportunity to work with these girls. However, I do not know who all I will have playing for me this season. There has been a big turnover among the girls who played varsity last season.”
WICHITA NORTHWEST GRIZZLIES League: GWAL
BOYS
Head Coach: Andy Hill, 7th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 8-13
2021: 14-8
2022: 14-7
2023: 13-9
2024: 18-7
Key returning players: Eli Benning, 6-1 sr., G; Darian Hammond, 6-0, jr., G; River Peters, 6-3, sr., G; DJ Brown, 6-5, sr., G;
Coach Hill says:
“This team has a chance to be really good, if all of the pieces come together and we get our chemistry right. We will have as much or more talent in our locker room as any team we have had in the seven years we have been here. The key will be getting everyone bought in and moving in the same direction.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Christina Commons, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-11
2021: 2-19
2022: 4-17
2023: 7-14
2024: 5-16
Key returning players: Kamerin Stubbs, 5-11, sr., F; Kailena Hallman, 5-11, sr., F; Jaycee Schur, jr., G;
Coach Commons says:
“This year you are going to get to see a group of girls that are excited to play. They work hard together, and we have size on the inside and shooters on the outside. With 4 returning seniors to be great leaders for our incoming freshman, we are continuing to grow as a program.”
WICHITA SOUTH TITANS League: GWAL
BOYS
Head Coach: Chuck Gunter, 12th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 7-14
2021: 7-14
2022: 9-12
2023: 11-10
2024: 10-12
Key returning players: Jaxson Howard, 6-2, sr., F; Jamison Howard, 6-2, so., G; Maliek Saunders, 5-11, jr., G; Jayshon Simmons, 6-0, jr., G;
Coach Gunter says:
“The team will turn to Jaxson Howard for leadership as he returns as the team’s most experienced varsity player and the only returning starter from last year’s team. This will be a very young team with some talented players. Underclassmen Jamison Howard, Maliek Sanders, and Jayshon Simmons will play heavy minutes this season. Even though this will be a rebuilding year for the most part, there is enough talent with this young group to earn some good wins this season.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Tshombe Phillips, 6th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 2-19
2021: 4-17
2022: 8-14
2023: 15-7
2024: 15-7
Key returning players: Mahogany Butler, sr., G; Chloe Hartzler, so., G;
Coach Phillips says:
“We graduated six seniors last year, so we will be young but competitive. We have built a culture here and look to carry it on.”
WICHITA SOUTHEAST BUFFALOES
League: GWAL
BOYS
Head Coach: Karl Brown, third season
Last five seasons:
2020: 15-7
2021: 12-9
2022: 12-9
2023: 8-13
2024: 11-10
Key returning players: Preston Dinh, sr., G; Collin Laws, sr., G; Jaydin Araujo, so., G;
Coach Brown says: “The season will be a season of ups and downs but if this unit stays connected, it will be a successful season.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Donald Dixon, 7th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 11-11
2021: 15-6
2022: 13-8
2023: 16-7
2024: 11-11
Key returning players: Alana Webb, sr., G; Janessa Franklin, sr., F;
Coach Dixon says: “I believe we will be a joy to watch
this season. We are extremely young, filled with a few high-energy players led by two returning seniors, Alana Webb, first-team AllCity top 5 leading scorer in the state, and honorable Mention returner Janessa Franklin, 6’3 Center, who led the City league in blocks. I’m looking forward to watching the Lady Buffs grow this year.”
WICHITA WEST PIONEERS
League: GWAL
BOYS
Head Coach: Austin McBeth, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-16
2021: 4-16
2022: 3-17
2023: 8-13
2024: 9-12
Key returning players: Treg Hardeman, jr., G; Trez Hardeman, jr., G;
Coach McBeth says: “I’m excited for the season and can’t wait to get on the court with the guys. We lost the bulk of our minutes and scoring from last season but our juniors and seniors have worked really hard in preseason and I believe they will compete and play for each other. This first year will most likely have some growing pains as the players and I figure each other out and develop together. My hope is that we see a lot of improvement from November to February and we play with a lot of passion and joy.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Allison Stucky,
2020: 6-15
2021: 2-17
2022: 2-19
2023: 0-15
2024: 0-17
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Coach Stucky says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Derby’s Macayla Askew
By Joanna Chadwick
Every year there are students who move into and out of Derby because their parents are part of the military and McConnell Air Force Base is just up the road
That also means rosters can change frequently due to military movement – sometimes a special player moves on and other times, a special player like junior Macayla Askew moves in. And, boy, is Askew special.
“Mac moves gracefully on the court, much like a gazelle,” coach Bryan Chadwick said. “Her long strides and arm reach create challenging matchups for defenders on offense, while her athleticism enables her to guard any position on defense.
In Game 1 at McPherson, Askew scored 25 points to lead the Panthers, a team that had seven seniors. Askew continued to cause defenses problems due to her leaping ability, how she can just go get a bucket and score from anywhere, how she finds the basketball on rebounds.
“She has a knack for finding ways to score, whether from inside the paint or beyond the three-point line,” Chadwick said. “And she consistently makes things happen on the court.”
Then, in the Class 6A semifinals in March, she scored 35 points and the state was on notice that Askew was a player we all need to be watching.
“The state game truly put her on the map,” Chadwick said. “Her first game didn’t go well; she was too caught up in her own thoughts. After a few discussions about how to perform at a high level, she focused on playing within our offense and made everyone take notice of her abilities.”
DAMM WELLNESS CLINIC DERBY ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
Jack Ulwelling
By Joanna Chadwick
Put the basketball in Derby senior Jack Ulwelling’s hands and he’s going to find a way to score.
That could mean he’ll spot up for a three or drive the lane against the much taller, much bulkier players to get the layup. Sometimes that means he ends up on the floor – and at the free-throw line.
His toughness also appears on the defensive side. He’s incredibly adept at taking charges, including taking a school record 16 charges in 2023-24. Ulwelling already owns the Derby career record with 25.
“He checks a lot of boxes for us,” Derby coach Brett Flory said. “(He’s) our best player, our strongest leader, our toughest kid and very high character off the court.”
But in eighth grade, after a freak accident during a PE class in middle school, Ulwelling’s basketball future appeared finished.
“I was worried that I wouldn’t play the sport I love ever again,” he said. “It was a devastating time in my life. I had to be positive and do everything I could to get back.”
Within hours of an awkward fall on his hip, Ulwelling was in surgery where four screws were placed. For three months he couldn’t put any weight on his right leg.
“There are so many times in the day where I think about it,” Ulwelling said. “I think about it before every game and every practice. Whether it’s a practice I don’t want to go to, it’s just about being thankful I can practice. Before a game, I feel lucky to play, win or lose. I have a bigger chip on my shoulder.”
Photo credit Sophia Edmondson
Campus’ Landon Brown
The Campus Colts aim to build on last season’s success, even after the departure of key players Kaason Thomas and Andrell Burton, who are now continuing their athletic careers at Coffeyville and South Dakota State. Losing two top-tier talents is never easy, but the Colts remain focused on a return to the state tournament.
One senior who will make an even bigger impact from his role last season is Landon Brown, a starter who was an honorable mention all-league kid a season ago.
“Some personal goals are to be named to the AVCTL first team and help the young guys become better players daily,” Brown said. “A team goal is definitely to make it back to state. It was a great experience last year, and I want to feel it again.”
Brown is a reliable scorer for the team, known for his catch-and-shoot abilities and smart decision-making on the court. Last season, he averaged 7.1 points per game, consistently providing a dependable shooting option. His knack for making the right play and staying a
threat beyond the arc makes him a valuable asset for the Colts as they look to make another strong push this season.
In addition to his impact on the court, Brown excels academically, maintaining an impressive 4.4 GPA and ranking in the top 10% of his class. His dedication in the classroom matches his commitment on the court, making him a true student-athlete who leads by example.
“To have such good grades just allows the younger kids to look up to me not only on the court but in the classroom as well,” Brown said.
RACHEL JANES’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Campus’ Addy Wood
By Blake Chadwick
Addison Wood, a junior at Campus High School, has been dedicated to basketball since her early days at the Haysville Activity Center, starting as early as second grade.
Now an upperclassman, she has a unique opportunity to bring her experience and enthusiasm to the Campus Colts program. With her leadership and determination, Wood is focused on making an impact and inspiring a winning spirit within the team this season.
The junior was an all-league honorable mention player who has been working nonstop this offseason but also knows that winning starts off the court.
“My biggest strengths are the ability to keep a positive attitude no matter the outcome of the game,” Wood said. “With Campus being such a young team, communication and leadership during practice and games is essential. As a leader this year, I plan to organize several team bonding events to help create a positive experience for my teammates and incoming freshmen.”
Wood is eyeing the opportunity to play basketball at the next level in the coming years. However, before that, she focused on achieving several key goals. As a junior leader on the Campus Colts team, she’s determined to leave her mark by pushing her game to new heights, helping her team succeed, and building a solid foundation for the program’s future.
“This season, my goal is to help the Campus Girls program be more competitive while working on my individual stats,” Wood said. “I would also like to be nominated for the first or second team this season. I am very close to my teammates and would love to see us win a few games this year.”
Heights’ Amalachi Wilkins
By Cooper Chadwick
Leaving Wichita Heights with the second most career games started, senior Amalachi Wilkins is more than ready to lead his team to a fourth straight 6A state title game.
Wilkins, who is stepping into a leadership role for this experienced Heights team, as the only team captain, has paid his dues and is ready.
“I am the leader of the team ‘CAP’. I make sure everything is straight. I am always the positive role model on the team on and off the court,” Wilkins said. “The person who when the storm is going to calm it down for the team and get us back together.”
The need to guard any position on the court is needed this year for Heights’ 6 ‘8 senior leader, and he has made it a priority this summer.
“At the next level I know I’m going to be asked to guard every position because of my athleticism,” Wilkins said. “During the offseason I made it a goal to guard every team’s best player over the summer.”
The last two years Heights has lost in the state championship game, Wilkins is using that as his motivation for his last year of high school basketball.
“The feeling never goes away. It just makes you want to work harder because you know it’s right there and for basketball there isn’t any. I just love the game. I love what I do, I don’t need any motivation for that,” Wilkins said.
Wichita Heights’ Heaven Gilbert: KTA “Driving Change” Athlete Spotlight
By Blake Chadwick
Wichita Heights’s Heaven Gilbert is one of the best players in the area for the class of 2025.
Gilbert helped lead the Falcons to a 22-3 season a year ago and is coming back for a vengeance.
“My team goals are to win state for women’s basketball, create a sisterhood, and to leave our mark on each court we step on to,” Gilbert said.
The senior is a big time leader who has a ton of big time basketball experience as she has been playing basketball since was five.
“As a leader of the Heights girls varsity basketball team, I am going to continue my role as a leader,” Gilbert said. “In that role I will have a positive impact, be the best teammate I can be on and off the court, keep the girls headstrong and overall help lead the girls to a ring this season.”
The Falcons will be led by Kennadi Jackson, Samiyah Ellis and Gilbert as they look to get Wichita Heights and their legendary head coach, Kip Pulliam, another state championship.
“Heaven is one of the hardest workers we have,” Pulliam said. “She is always striving to be the best she can on the basketball court and in the classroom. She has a natural leader mentality and that makes her very special to this team.
By Cooper Chadwick
Wichita Heights’ Chase Robinson
Earning first team all-league, second team all-state and first team for the Dodge City Tournament, Heights’ Chase Robinson is going to play a major role in the success of the Falcons this year.
“Arguably one of the best players in Kansas the second half of the season,” Head coach Joe Auer said about Robinson, who is a point guard who can play all five positions on the floor.
“One of the most versatile players I have coached during my career,” Auer also said about Robinson.
Robinson, who last year averaged 13.5 points per game, 2.7 assist and 5.8 rebounds, is determined to keep working and make a name for himself.
“In the offseason I started training with my trainer three times a week. On my off days that I don’t have training, I like to go to the YMCA and get a lift in & get more shots up after I get done lifting,” Robinson said.
Robinson, who Coach Auer describes as a “close to the vest”
type of person, has made it a priority to be a vocal leader on the court this year.
“During the summer when we were back with the team I was just working on being the loudest on the court at all time and encouraging my teammates when they would make a mistake & get down on themselves,” Robinson said. “I also practiced bringing the energy to every practice and workout session we had this summer. Overall just doing whatever I can do to better myself and my teammates so we have a great upcoming season.
TOMMY LEACH’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
Wichita Southeast’s Collin Laws
Not being chosen for first or second team all-league honors has been a driving factor for Southeast’s Collin Laws to put in extra work for the upcoming season.
This being Laws’ senior season, he plans to give it all for his teammates and the Southeast community and step into a leadership role.
Over the offseason Laws has put in hours of work to get better and has been fine tuning his game for his final year of high school basketball.
“This off season I have been working out with the team (weights, speed training, etc) and working on my game itself. Going to the gym every day and trying to get better at something even if it was something small,” Laws said. “I am most excited about playing at home with the fans and playing with a team which I think could go very far this year.”
As one of Southeast’s main guys this year, Laws knows he has to step up offensively to help his team win games.
“This year I want to improve on being more aggressive with the ball and looking to score more,” Laws said. “Putting in the work is the confidence boost I need to become that.”
Laws knows that being a leader is not about barking orders but doing all the little things to help his team win.
“The role I play for my team is to keep everything in line and make sure people are doing what they are supposed to. Not only that but to encourage my teammates whenever I can,” Laws said. “Bonding with my teammates and really getting to know them off the court.”
Wichita Northwest’s Eli Benning
By Blake Chadwick
After making it to the state tournament for the first time since 2011, Wichita Northwest pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the year after knocking off the defending state champion, Blue Valley Northwest Grizzlies, in the state tournament.
The Grizzlies ended up finishing fourth, but after a great summer and some key additions, don’t be surprised when the Grizzlies start making some waves.
Senior point guard Eli Benning is one of the best point guards in the state and is fresh off of a season where he was named to the all-city league first team after averaging 11.4 points per game, 7.4 assists per game 5.2 rebounds per game, and 4.1 steals per game.
Benning is a do-it-all guard who only has one thing on his mind, and that is winning.
“I have been working hard for a long time, and getting some recognition for the hard work I’ve put in throughout the years feels good,” Benning said. “As a team, I want to make it back to WSU, and I want to break the record for assists at Northwest and to get first team all-league and state this year.”
Benning has been chasing greatness his whole career,
and now, as a senior, he will make sure that everyone else is on the same page.
“I’m going to make sure my team works hard all year, starting in practice,” Benning said. “I will make sure we stay laser-focused and never take a day off.”
Maize’s Brayden Myovela
By Blake Chadwick
The last two years, the young core of the Maize Eagles have taken their lumps, finishing 10-11 and 13-9 the last two years, respectively. Now as Alec Grill and Alan Hanna enter their senior year, and Brayden Myovela enters his junior year, the Eagles will be in the conversation for competing for a state championship again.
Myovela is coming off of a football season where he made the switch to playing quarterback and leading the Eagles to five wins in a row after starting the season 0-4. The junior passed for 11 touchdowns and two interceptions while rushing for four touchdowns in his limited time as the starting quarterback.
Now, in his primary sport of basketball, Myovela will be looking to lead the Eagles back to a state championship as they did in 2021.
Myovela averaged nearly 13 points a game, three assists a game, and five rebounds a game while being named a unanimous AVCTL-1 first-team
player a season ago.
The junior spent the offseason playing for KC Run GMC, which was one of the top teams in the country for any summer circuit. Myovela helped lead Run GMC to an Under Armour Association 16U title.
“This offseason, I tried to put up shots on the weekend and I go an hour or too with my trainer every Sunday, working ball handling and stuff,” Myovela said. “An area I’m working on right now, is shooting off dribble more consistently.”
By Blake Chadwick
Maize’s Alec Grill
Maize’s Alec Grill is part of one of the most respected basketball families in the state. His father, who is the head coach at Maize High, played at Wichita State, his mom played at Butler Community College, his oldest brother Caleb has played at Iowa State, UNLV and Missouri. His middle brother, Kyle, who graduated in 2022 plays at Fort Hays State, and now, Alec has the opportunity to carry on the family legacy and become the next in the family to play college basketball.
Growing up in a basketball-centered family, Grill has always been immersed in the game. Whether attending his brothers’ games or watching his dad coach, basketball has been a constant presence in his life, shaping his passion and dedication to the sport.
The senior has been playing varsity ever since his sophomore year and has gotten better every year, being named to the second team all-league last year, he has his sights set on something a little more this season.
“My personal goal is just to improve on every aspect of my game trying to become the best player I can,” Grill said. “As a team I think we have a great chance of winning the league and going onto place top three at state.”
With nearly everyone returning, this upcoming season, a championship is definitely
Thomas
Jason
Bret
Dustin
Ryan S. McCarthy, O.D.
on the front of the mind of Grill, especially as it is the last time his father will be coaching him.
“Playing basketball for my dad is the best experience I could ask for,” Grill said.
“Everyone thinks that it would be harder, although he is harder on me than any other coach I have ever had, everything he does or says is making me better.”
Wichita Heights’ Kennadi Jackson
By Blake Chadwick
Making it back to state with the Wichita-Area legend head coach Kip Pulliam was entirely on brand for the Wichita Heights Falcons in Pulliam’s first year back. Now, in his second season, the Falcons will be hungry to make it back, especially with their great senior class led by Kennadi Jackson.
Jackson is a sharp-minded, quick guard for the Falcons, known for her high basketball IQ and speed. Last season, she averaged 13 points, 4.8 assists, and 4 rebounds per game. Her performance earned her a spot on the all-city first team and an all-state honorable mention.
“Kennadi is a tenacious defender on the ball and uses her speed and quickness on both ends of the court,” Pulliam said. “She has become a great leader and is very unselfish. On the offensive end of the court, she is very good at getting in the paint and finishing or getting her teammates great looks. She can also score at the midrange and three-point level, which makes her tough to guard on offense. Kennadi’s hard-nose defense and leadership make her a very special player for us. She will do whatever it takes to help the team win.”
The senior has grown up in a basketball-oriented family, so playing at the next level has been very important to her. During the offseason, Jackson committed to play basketball at Washburn University.
But Jackson isn’t looking too far ahead yet, as she has unfinished business at Heights.
“My goals for this year are making first team all-city, making first-team allstate,” Jackson said. “My other personal goals are getting better mentally and physically. The team goals for this year are making it back to state, going farther than we did last year, and being city league champs again.”
Wichita East’s Ismael Berry
By Blake Chadwick
After a season full of struggles, making it to state was the least of the worries for the Wichita East Blue Aces. That was until they got everything clicking on all cylinders. With overtime wins over Junction City and Wichita South, the Blue Aces found themselves as the eighth seed at State, where they lost to the eventual state champion, Shawnee Mission Northwest Cougars.
The Blue Aces graduated a good group of seniors, but bring back one of the best guards in the state in senior Ismael Berry.
“After making it to state last year, what we need to do to get back is play with confidence,” Berry said. “I think last year that’s why my team was the underdog in most games, so as long as we do that, build good chemistry, and trust one another, we should reach our goals.”
Berry is a very smooth offensive player and high-pressure defender who was a Class 6A all-state honorable mention player a season ago.
“What makes me stand out as a player is my hunger to compete, my ability to break down defenders, and also being able to shoot the long-range three ball,” Berry said. “I’m very different and outgoing. I’m not a basic type of player. I use a lot of counters and moves that you wouldn’t see most trying in a game.”
The senior has plans of making it back to state, but also has plans to grow his leadership.
“As a leader this year, I’m going to uplift everyone around me, making sure it’s a brotherhood and directing our team in the right direction,” Berry said. “Also be that vocal voice or coach on the floor and hold my teammates accountable and as well as myself.”
Wichita Northwest’s D.J. Brown
By Cooper Chadwick
Joining a new team as a senior is not the easiest thing, but senior D.J. Brown has shown up day in and day out and is ready to help Wichita Northwest win a state title.
Northwest’s head coach Andy Hill commented on how good of an athlete and basketball player Brown is, but that is not the thing that has surprised him the most about Brown.
“What has impressed me most about him has been his attitude and his willingness to lead since he’s been here. DJ is extremely humble and a natural leader with great energy,” Hill said.
Brown averaged a near double-double last year with 19.8 points per game and eight rebounds, earning him all-league first team and all-state second team.
Joining a new team, Brown has hoped that he can make a difference for the grizzlies this year.
“Some goals I have individually are to help and make sure my team wins. My team goals are to win city league, make it to Koch arena for the state tournament, and win the midseason tournament,” Brown said.
Brown, a shooting guard, has been working on efficiency and playmaking this offseason to help him make sure this team wins.
“I have been in the gym Every chance that I get. Every day conditioning, getting more in shape and perfecting my craft,” Brown said.
Wichita Southeast’s Alana Webb
By Blake Chadwick
After making it to state two years ago, Alana Webb and a lot of the key pieces on that Wichita Southeast team were all underclassmen. Now as a senior, Webb is looking to get back there.
Webb has played basketball for over 12 years and has always had a love that set her apart from a lot of those around her. Now as one of the best scorers in the area, Webb has gotten a lot of attention the last couple of years.
“I am a player that will do anything to win if that means I have to foul out or have to guard the best player on the opposing team all game to win,” Webb said. “I just know that I play for my team and not myself if I had zero points but I knew I did everything I could to contribute to the team that’s a good game to me.”
Webb averaged 17.4 points a game last year with 3.1 steals a game, but is hungry for more after an 11-11 finish last season.
“My personal goal is to average 20 a game and also make all city first team and all state first team,” Webb said. “But my team goal is to most definitely make it to state and have the experience of being on the Wichita state university floor again.”
Wichita South’s Mahogany Butler
By Blake Chadwick
Ever since she was four, Mahogany Butler has been all about playing basketball. Now as a senior she is ready to lead the Wichita South Titans to a deep playoff run after last year’s 15-7 season was cut short.
“The kind of player she is is a tenacious defender and very aggressive on the offensive end,” head coach Thsombe Phillips said. “She has a very giving personality and loves to see her teammates do well. What also makes her special is the fact that she doesn’t shy away from the competition and is willing to take on the other team’s best player each and every night.”
Butler knows that her defense is something she prides herself in and has been what kept her on the court these last four years as a varsity player.
The senior averaged 10 points per game, five rebounds per game and three steals per game a season ago. But now with a lot more accountability on her shoulders, she is going to have to continue leading and take some new players under her wing.
“What I want to do as a leader is to just encourage my team to do well in school because it’s just as important to have good grades so you can still play,” Butler said. “It means a lot. I really try my hardest to set a good example for the younger girls on my team, and show them that the only way we can make it to state is if we work hard in practice.”
Wichita East’s Heylei Davis
By Blake Chadwick
Year in and year out, the goal for Class 6A teams is to get to Wichita State and win a state championship.
Wichita East finished 10-12 a year ago but brought back three starters and a handful of really good transfers.
The Blue Aces will be led by senior Heylei Davis, who will be looking to take over an even bigger role.
“As a leader this year I am going to play my part,” Davis said. “I will always help my team and keep them motivated and have fun while playing. (I believe) nothing comes easy and if we want to have a good season then everybody needs to work hard.”
With hard work at the forefront for everything Davis is as a player, she has some more goals she wants to cross off her list.
“My personal goal for this year is to have a better season than I did last year and to play consistent and make all-city,” Davis said.
“My goals for the team is to stay focused, work together and to play in the state tournament at WSU this season.”
Davis, who will be one of the better and more experienced players, does want to play at the next level, but knows she has unfinished business to take care of at East High.
WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL POLL WINNER
Wichita Heights’ Samiyah Ellis
By Blake Chadwick
Year after year, Wichita Heights consistently produces talented guards, and senior guard Samiyah Ellis is the next in line to carry on that legacy under head coach Kip Pulliam. Ellis is poised to follow in the footsteps of previous Heights guards who have gone on to play at the next level.
“Samiyah is a very athletic guard that has great speed and quickness,” Pulliam said. “She can score at all three levels and is also good at distributing the ball and getting her teammates involved. I think her ability to make plays on both ends of the court makes her a special player.”
Ellis helped lead the Falcons to state with a 22-3 record while being named to the all-league first team and all-state second team.
“My mentality when playing is to go dominate whoever my opponent is and play with confidence,” Ellis said.
After a standout season as the leading scorer in the
City League, Samiyah Ellis reached the 1,000 career points milestone—an achievement that caught the attention of college coaches nationwide. Her performance ultimately earned her a spot at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where she’ll play under former Wichita Heights head coach Lane Lord.
“I connected on a level like no other with the coaches within a day,” Ellis said. “Everything just clicked for me, I knew that this was the place I needed to be.”
Maize’s Conrad Litton
By Matt Browning
Maize’s Conrad Litton has been through so much in his 16-plus years of his life.
In 2023, he was diagnosed with cancer and had to go through six rounds of chemotherapy, which caused him to develop drop foot and weak joints.
“After my remission I was allowed to play football again and I now play offensive right tackle for Maize and I still feel these pains quite often but they are totally normal,” Litton said. “My weak joints later showed on the football field and in the weight room as my knees were hurting all the time. I was attempting a squat max In the summer of 2024 and my left knee gave out and caused my leg to buckle in. Thankfully I didn’t tear anything I only strained my patella tendon.”
The drop foot and weak joints led him to Advanced Physical Therapy.
“The exercises that were beneficial to me were the ASTEM treatment and little movements such as pistol squats, hip rotations and riding the stationary bike, strengthening my knees hips and ankles to prevent any other injuries,” Litton said.
Litton said by going to APT, he was able to get back to the football field faster.
“Don’t wait to get your injuries fixed and try to ‘tough it out’ because in the end that only makes it worse and can injure you further,” Litton said. “Get the appropriate treatment. Stick to your exercises and you’ll be back in no time.”
Kenny Barry, PT, DPT
Therapist: Kenny Barry, PT, DPT & Family
Favorite sport: Basketball/Weightlifting
Favorite activity/exercise to get in easy movement: Pickleball
Sports you played in high school: I played basketball at Derby High School.
What you treat/specialize in: I treat a little bit of everything, including sports rehab, but nowadays, I specialize in Parkinson’s and vestibular patients.
Best tip for high school athletes: Participating in multiple sports creates a more well-rounded athlete and helps to develop a more diverse skill set.
5A TEAMS TO WATCH
BOYS
Kapaun Mount Carmel, the defending state champion, graduated William Thengvall, who was a first team all-state selection. The cupboard is far from bare for the Crusaders, however. Corbin Johnson, who was a second team allstate selection is back. The senior guard averaged 16 points per game last year. Also back is Rocco Keller (9.4 ppg) and Blaise Dalian (7.3 ppg). Kapaun will be one of the handful of teams who can win 5A in 2025.
The 2023 state champion, Andover, brings back first team all-stater Josh Kim. The Trojans also return Will Baker and Owen Allman. Andover made the state tournament last season and have the roster to get there again this season. Andover Central fell to Maize South in the sub-state finals last season, but bring back three all-league players. Leading the way will be Jayden Brown, who averaged nearly 16 points per game last season. Also back are Brody DeGarmo and Jace Adler, who were honorable mention all-league selections. Maize South will look to reload this season as only seven percent of last season’s scoring returns. That one player is Cy Stucky, who came on late in the year. The 6-7 forward will be the focal point for the Mavericks, who figure to be much better in February.
First team all-league selection Terrell King is back for Hutchinson. Fellow seniors Levi Kepler, Matt Whitt and Taishaun Govain are also back for the Salthawks, who will be a contender in the AVCTL Division I.
BOYS
CLASS 5A PLAYERS TO WATCH
League: AVCTL DII
BOYS
Head Coach: Martin Shetlar, 8th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 23-0
2021: 19-3
2022: 17-5
2023: 23-2
2024: 18-5
GIRLS
While Maize South only brings back one starter (Kaylee Brunton), but the Mavericks have a ton of talent on their roster. Skylar Seals and Ali Singhateh, both honorable mention all-league selections last season, return. Jaela Thompson, a transfer from McPherson, was a first team all-league selection in AVCTL Division III. Maize South has the roster to get back to the state tournament again. The Mavericks took second last season.
Over the past two seasons, Andover has gone 45-5. While the Trojans graduated significant talent from last year’s team that went 24-1, they have a roster that can contend in 5A. Aliyah Green, who received numerous all-state and all-league honors is back, as well as key role players Katie Evans and Bella Bouddhara, who are expected to make a jump this season into more prominent roles.
Bishop Carroll has made the state tournament three straight seasons and can certainly get there again 2025. Lilly Martin will be the Golden Eagles top returning player, as she was as second team all-league selection a year ago. Starting point guard Brooke Steven is also back for Carroll.
Kapaun Mount Carmel returns 90 percent of its roster from last season, including second team all-league selection McCoy Phister. The Crusaders also bring in transfer Zoey Buckner-Franklin, who was a first team all-state selection last season for Wichita Independent. The Crusaders are a team to watch in the City League.
GIRLS
Jayden Brown, Andover Central
Pierce Blue, Eisenhower
Corbin Johnson, Kapaun Mount Carmel
Terrell King, Hutchinson
Josh Kim, Andover
Austin Saner, Valley Center
Zoey Buckner-Franklin, Kapaun
Mount Carmel
Tamia Cheeks, Salina South
Anna Duncan, Valley Center
Aliyah Green, Andover
Paityn Fritz, Salina South
Saliyah Henderson-Johnson, Ark City
Brooklyn Jordan, Salina South
Lilly Martin, Bishop Carroll
McCoy Phister, Kapaun Mount Carmel
Grace Posch, Hutchinson
Presley Schmidt, Goddard
Kaia Smith, Hutchinson
Coach Sheltar says:
“We return three starters from last year’s team. We will have a lot more experience this year than we did last year. We hope to continue to build on last year’s success.”
GIRLS
Key returning players: Josh Kim, 6-3, sr., G; Will Baker, 6-5, C; Owen Allman, 6-1, sr., G; Zeke McCaskill, 6-0, sr., G; Griffin Hand, 6-0, jr., G; Walker McCleleen, 6-3, jr., G
Head Coach: Hannah Alexander,
2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 8-13
2021: 9-13
2022: 13-9
2023: 21-4
2024: 24-1
Key returning players: Aliyah Green, 6-1, sr., F; Katie Evans, 5-1, sr., G; Bella Bouddhara, 5-7, so., G; Brodie Christensen, 5-9, sr., F; Amelya Vance, 5-2, sr., G
Coach Alexander says:
“We are bringing back a very experienced team. We have a strong senior class and we are ready to handle each game one at a time, but ultimately we want to get back to state and handle some unfinished business.”
ANDOVER CENTRAL JAGUARS
League: AVCTL DII
BOYS
Head Coach: Tyler Richardson, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-9
2021: 6-11
2022: 18-4
2023: 17-5
2024: 14-8
Key returning players: Jayden Brown, 5-8, sr., G; Brody DeGarmo, 5-11, sr., G; Jace Adler, 6-3, sr., F; Jace Jefferson, 6-1, sr., G; Maddox Archibald, 5-8, sr., G; Brandt Stupka, 6-2, sr., F
Coach Richardson says:
“This is a senior heavy team with experience. Most have been varsity athletes in a variety of sports at Andover Central since they were freshmen or sophomores.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Stana Jefferson
Last five seasons:
2020: 22-1
2021: 24-1
2022: 19-6
2023: 17-6
2024: 9-12
Key returning players: Taylin Tabor, 5-6, sr., G; Karylin Wilson, 5-4, sr., G; Emma Cooper, 5-9, sr., F; Payton Converse, 5-11, so., F
Coach Jefferson says:
“We have lots of young kids that have the potential to be in the mix. The off-season extra work, work ethic, the acceptance of roles, and ability to buy into the culture will play a huge factor.”
ARK CITY BULLDOGS
League: AVCTL DII
BOYS
Head Coach: David Boxman, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-11
2021: 14-8
2022: 3-18
2023: 10-11
2024: 5-16
Key returning players: Collin Frazier, 6-5, sr., F; Jake Abrams, 5-9, sr., G; Brayden Pinion, 6-4, sr., F
Coach Boxman says:
“Our basketball team is built around a strong core of returning seniors who bring invaluable experience and leadership. These key players will serve as the foundation of our team, guiding us through the season and providing the leadership we can build upon.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Tyler Henderson, 3rd season
Last five seasons: 2020: 3-18
2021: 0-21
2022: 2-19
2023: 4-17
2024: 7-14
Key returning players: Saliyah Henderson-Johnson, 5-6, jr., G; Savannah Phillips, 5-8, jr., F; Kierslynn Waggoner, 5-7, sr., G
Coach Henderson says: “We are privileged to have a team of talented girls who exhibit coachability and a positive mindset. Although we demonstrated significant progress last season, there remains substantial room for improvement.”
BISHOP
CARROLL GOLDEN EAGLES League: GWAL
BOYS
Head Coach: Dale Faber, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 18-7
2021: 21-1
2022: 19-3
2023: 10-11
2024: 7-14
Key returning players: Jackson Bergkamp, 6-1, sr., G; Judd Blasi, 6-0, jr., G; Hayden Frederick, 6-0, so., G; Nathan Goertz, 6-3, jr., F
Coach Faber says: “Though we are all looking forward to the upcoming season, we definitely have more questions than answers. I would like to think the answers of what type of team we will be has been addressed concerning attitudes and effort.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Taylor Dugan, 13th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-6
2021: 15-3
2022: 19-4
2023: 22-3
2024: 20-4
Key returning players: Lilly Martin, 5-5, sr., G; Megan Simon, 5-10, sr., F; Avery McCorry, 5-9, jr., G; Anna Stallbaumer, 5-8, jr., G
Coach Dugan says: “We are eager to see how our team develops over the course of the season. With a focus on defense, a strong mix of talent, and a commitment to improvement, we are optimistic about the season ahead.”
EISENHOWER TIGERS
League: AVCTL DII
BOYS
Head Coach: Steve Blue, 14th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-8
2021: 17-4
2022: 6-16
2023: 6-15
2024: 8-13
Key returning players: Pierce Blue, 6-5, sr., G; Derek Morgan, 6-3, sr., F; Cohen Ho, 6-2, sr., G; Kasten Koehn, 5-10, sr., G; Owen Stanberry, 5-11, jr., G
Coach Blue says: “We have three starters returning from last season including first team allleague player Pierce Blue and honorable mention all-league player Derek Morgan. We did lose our leading scorer but do return several players off our bench who hopefully will be ready to take on bigger roles.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Matt Brumley, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-12
2021: 15-6
2022: 7-14
2023: 14-7
2024: 6-15
Key returning players: Hannah Bedore, 5-7, sr., G; Ella Friend, 5-11, sr., F; Payton Blue, 5-10, jr., G
Coach Brumley says:
“We look to be an athletic, fast paced team that likes to push the tempo and apply a lot of pressure on the defensive side of the ball. We are looking for contributions from girls that have not yet played at the varsity level and they are welcoming the opportunities.”
GODDARD LIONS
League: AVCTL DII
BOYS
Head Coach: Blake Myers, 3rd
season
Last five seasons:
2020: 1-20
2021: 1-20
2022: 4-17
2023: 8-13
2024: 13-9
Key returning players: Brysyn Warren, 6-0, sr., G; Aaron Henderson, 6-6, sr., F; Erv Manuel-Philips, 6-2, jr., F; Jaxen Terhune, 6-4, jr., G
Coach Myers says:
“We will look to continue the growth of the Goddard Basketball program in the upcoming season. Our goal every year is to win our league and make a run in the postseason. It has been a long time since Goddard earned a ticket to the state tournament and we hope to be able to get there in the near future.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Jeremy Heim, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 1-20
2021: 7-14
2022: 16-5
2023: 5-16
2024: 9-12
Key returning players: Presley Schmidt, 5-8, so., G; Marayah Coleman, 6-3, sr., F; Sariah Potter, 5-11, jr., F; Audi Phillips, 5-6, sr., G
Coach Heim says:
“The Goddard High Girls basketball team only lost one senior off the starting squad from last year. We have seven ladies who had heavy varsity time coming back and are ready to work hard.”
HUTCHINSON SALTHAWKS
League: AVCTL DI
BOYS
Head Coach: Bryan Miller, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 1-21
2021: 7-14
2022: 12-10
2023: 22-3
2024: 15-7
Key returning players: Terrell King, 5-10, sr., G; Levi Kepler, 6-3, sr., F; Matt Whitt, 6-2, sr., F; Taishaun Govain, 6-2, sr., F
Coach Miller says:
“Our overall length on the court will allow us to cover a lot of ground on defense and hopefully be one of the better rebounding teams in the league. A lot of our success will depend on us staying healthy and being able to develop our backcourt depth.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Kalen Hilst, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 12-10
2021: 8-12
2022: 17-5
2023: 16-6
2024: 13-9
Key returning players: Grace Posch, 5-7, sr., G; Kaia Smith, 6-1, sr., F; Kohlbie Craft, 5-9, jr., F; Lily Rodriguez, 5-7, sr., G
Coach Hilst says:
“We have a loaded schedule due to how good the AVCTL is across the board, but we are primed to have a good season.
We had a really good summer and are looking forward to the season.”
KAPAUN MOUNT CARMEL CRUSADERS
League: GWAL
BOYS
Head Coach: Steve Eck, 4th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 17-6
2021: 15-6
2022: 21-2
2023: 23-2
2024: 22-3
Key returning players: Corbin Johnson, 6-4, sr., G; Rocco Keller, 6-5, jr., G; Blasé Dalian, 6-4, so., G; Owen Herlocker, 6-4, sr., G; Corey Daniels, 5-11, sr., G
Coach Eck says:
“We will not have the length that we have had in the past. We lost three good seniors that led us to a state championship. We need to find a scorer inside. We should be above average and will need improve throughout the season to challenge for a championship.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Will Engles, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 13-9
2021: 13-9
2022: 10-12
2023: 12-9
2024: 12-9
Key returning players: McCoy Phister, 5-3, jr., G; Mason Palace, 6-0, jr., F; Zoey Franklin, 5-6, so., G
Coach Engles says: “We are returning about 90 percent of our roster from last season and will be bringing a lot of experience to this season. We have a great team and a lot of players ready to step into bigger roles this season.”
MAIZE SOUTH MAVERICKS
League: AVCTL DI
BOYS
Head Coach: Joe Jackson, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 8-13
2021: 10-11
2022: 15-6
2023: 19-4
2024: 23-2
Key returning players: Cy Stucky, 6-7, jr., F; Tucker Lowe, 6-2, jr., G; Reece Pauly, 5-11, jr., G
Coach Jackson says: “We won’t have a single senior on the roster this year (with the possible exception of if a football player comes back out that hasn’t played since he was a freshman). I am looking forward to playing a younger lineup this year, and we want to compete well enough to give ourselves a chance to win against the top teams in our league.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Ben Hamilton, 8th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 18-5
2021: 15-8
2022: 11-10
2023: 16-6
2024: 24-2
Key returning players: Kaylee Brunton, 5-11, jr., G; Skylar Seals, 5-6, sr., G; Ali Singateh, 5-9, jr., F; Addie Davee, 6-3, so., C; Lizzy Lassley, 5-5, sr., G; Rylan Chandler, 5-8, sr., F; Jaela Thompson, 5-10, so., G
Coach Hamilton says:
“The Keys to success for our team this year will be winning the rebounding battle every night, out-executing teams at both ends, and limiting turnovers. Our goals for the year is to compete for an AVCTL League Title and to be playing our best basketball in late February / early March for a 5A state tournament run.”
NEWTON RAILERS
League: AVCTL DII
BOYS
Head Coach: Paul Reichenberger, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 8-12
2021: 2-19
2022: 1-20
2023: 2-19
2024: 2-19
Key returning players: Cole Dillon, 6-2, jr., G; Maddox Williams, 5-10, jr., G; Camden Schmidt, 6-2, sr., F
Key returning players: Tatum Suderman, sr., Amare Henderson, sr., Emma Pfannenstiel, sr., Brooklyn Bailey, sr., Mia Coleman, sr.
Coach Schneider says: “We have five seniors returning from previous season and everyone else is sophomore or younger. We look forward to getting to work with our group of seniors and making their last season a memorable one.”
SALINA CENTRAL MUSTANGS League: AVCTL DII
BOYS
Head Coach: Chris Fear, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 9-12
2021: 7-14
2022: 10-11
2023: 5-16
2024: 6-15
Key returning players: Kamryn Jones, 6-1, sr., G; Finley Waltman, 6-2, sr., F; Kaden Snyder, 6-6, sr., C
Coach Fear says:
Coach Talbott says: “We are looking forward to becoming better each and every week, while continuing the culture of excellence.”
SALINA SOUTH COUGARS
League: AVCTL DI
BOYS
Head Coach: Jason Hooper, 12th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 11-10
2021: 16-5
2022: 7-14
2023: 1-20
2024: 3-17
Key returning players: Jace Humphrey, 6-4, sr., F; Sawyer Walker, 6-5, jr., G; Gavin Devoe, 6-6, jr., F; Jaxon Myers, 5-10, jr., G
Coach Hooper says: “This team returns a lot of pieces and will look to build off the experience gained a year ago. We will look to be more physical than last year as we were very young due to injuries a year ago.”
VALLEY CENTER HORNETS
League: AVCTL DI
BOYS
Head Coach: Brandon Wolff, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-12
2021: 16-6
2022: 16-6
2023: 4-17
2024: 4-17
Key returning players: Austin Saner, 5-11, sr., G; Colby Newton, 6-0, sr., G; Bryson Saner, 6-3, sr., G; Doc Needham, 6-0, sr., G; Corben Burgess, 6-5, sr., C
5A
Coach Reichenberger says: “The boys have worked hard all offseason and are eager to show how much they have improved. Last year, the team was very young and lacked a lot of experience.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Justin Schneider, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 2-19
2021: 2-19
2022: 2-19
2023: 7-14
2024: 3-18
“We are a very excited as we prepare for the 2024-25 season. We graduated three starters from last year’s group. This team will have a new group of performers. We are excited to develop our culture and become the best program that we can be.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Paige Talbott, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 15-6
2021: 19-5
2022: 24-1
2023: 11-11
2024: 10-11
Key returning players: Charlize Waltman, 5-9, sr., F; Tessa Snyder, 5-10, sr., F
GIRLS
Head Coach: Justin Ebert, 4th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 9-12
2021: 10-12
2022: 7-14
2023: 8-13
2024: 11-10
Key returning players: Tamia Cheeks, 5-7, sr., G; Paityn Fritz, 6-2, jr., C; Brooklyn Jordan, 5-3, jr., G
Coach Ebert says: “We have a lot of experience and contribution coming back for the 2024-25 season. We return 83 percent of our scoring, 81 percent of our rebounding and 83 percent of our assists from last year’s team.”
Coach Wolff says: “With several key players returning, including seasoned sophomores, juniors, and seniors, we have a strong foundation of experience and leadership. The players understand our system, and their chemistry on the court is evident. This experience will help us build on last year’s progress and confidently tackle tough moments.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Trent Preheim
Last five seasons: 2020: 7-13
2021: 8-14
2022: 7-14
2023: 7-14
2024: 14-8
Key returning players: Anna Duncan, 5-11, sr., F; Avery Davison, 5-6, jr., G; Taylor McDonald, 6-0, jr., C
Coach Preheim says: “Coming off of a winning season, we are hoping to maintain our momentum from last season. In order to be successful, we need to be more consistent scoring the basketball and adjust to the more physical play that is typical with bigger teams.”
Andover Central’s Brody Degarmo
By Matt Browning
The last time the Andover Central boys basketball team made the state tournament was in 2020, but Brody Degarmo is focused on ending that streak in 2025.
“As a team I want to win league, but most importantly bring another state championship back to Andover Central,” Degarmo said.
Many of the Jaguars have been playing together for many years, which is something special for Degarmo.
“I am very excited to be able to play with all my senior friends who most of them I have been playing with since elementary school,” Degarmo said.
The preparation process for Degarmo has been plain and simple throughout the offseason.
“To prepare for this year I have really focused on keeping myself in the gym, and connecting with my teammates for one last year,” Degarmo said.
Last season, as honorable mention all-league selection, Degarmo averaged eight points, three rebounds and three assists. But with all of his work in the gym and weight room, he is thinking big things for this season.
“As an individual I want to be first team all-league,” Degarmo said. “I want to improve on my abilities in the paint. I feel that working out will help me to improve down low.”
Andover Central’s Emma Cooper
By Matt Browning
Emma Cooper from Andover Central had a busy offseason where she not only focused on her individual game, but also in a teamenvironment
“I have been going to trainings and scrimmages weekly during the offseason to improve and get ready for the season,” Cooper said. “I have also gone to a few college camps. Over the offseason, I have been working on this during games and scrimmages and on my own.”
Being a better scorer at the rim was a focus for Cooper in her preparations for the season.
“As an individual I want to improve finishing at the basket,” Cooper said. “Whether it’s driving or a post move, I want to finish tough shots at the rim.”
The Lady Jaguars have a strong bond and Cooper said that is one reason why basketball season is so enjoyable. She is also trying to cultivate the program’s culture by investing in the new players.
“I am most excited to play basketball with my friends one more time,” Cooper said. “In practice, games and outside of playing I have a lot of fun with teammates during the season. As a team, I always want to improve team chemistry and getting to know each other, especially younger players.”
Hutchinson’s Grace Posch
By Matt Browning
Hutchinson’s Grace Posch averaged 12 points per game last season and shot 38 percent from the field.
Being a better shooter, while also being an efficient one, is the one area that Posch wants to improve on.
“This year, I aim to increase my shooting range and prepare for college basketball,” Posch said. “To work on this area during the offseason, I had individual training sessions focused on shot selection, contact and separation, participated in speed and agility training, and spent time in the weight room.”
Throughout the summer months, it was all basketball all of the time for Posch. From the all-weekend tournaments to weekday evenings, Posch had her fix of the game she loves.
“During the offseason, I played with MoKan Select out of Kansas City and had individual weekly training sessions with Craig Nicholson and Phil Anderson,” Posch said. “Additionally, I had individual weight training sessions to get stronger for basketball.”
As much as she is a basketball player, Posch is a competitor. While she loves basketball, she likes the challenges each game presents.
“I am most excited to play the sport I am most passionate about with my teammates and build on last year’s successes,” Posch said. Competing in every game is something I eagerly look forward to.
Kapaun Mount Carmel’s McCoy Phister
By Cooper Chadwick
Seen as one of the best defenders to come through Kapaun Mt. Carmel in the last ten years, junior McCoy Phister seems to just have a knack for the game of basketball.
Last year as a sophomore Phister was a vocal leader and a calming voice for her team, this season she looks to continue being a leader on and off the court.
“Being a leader is an important part of my role on the team and one of the things I am looking forward to this upcoming season. Basketball season is the longest sports season of the year, which allows for a longer time to build strong connections with my teammates and also enhance team chemistry,” Phister said.
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Defense is Phister’s bread and butter but she wants to improve on her offensive side of the game so she can become a more rounded player. Phister averaged 9.5 points per game, 2.8 assist, 2.4 steals and 4 rebounds, which earned her second team all-league and all-state honorable mention.
“I would like to improve on my contribution to the offensive side. My ability to finish at the rim and having a successful shooting percentage will help me achieve that goal,” Phister said. “To help work on finishing at the rim, I worked on different moves to get to the rim at full speed. Instead of an easy layup, I also worked on different ways to finish at the rim. A quick release on my jump shot is going to help me tremendously in this upcoming season.”
Eisenhower’s Pierce Blue
By Matt Browning
The Eisenhower connection proved to be beneficial for Pierce Blue over the offseason as a former Tiger player trained Blue.
“I trained a lot with an ex-Eisenhower, pro player overseas named Trevon Evans,” Blue said. “He helped me with a lot of footwork and helped shaped all parts of my game.”
Blue averaged nearly 14 points per game last season, as well seven rebounds. But there was a specific area of his game he wanted to improve on for the 2025 season.
“One area I’m trying to improve on would be rim attacks,” Blue said. “I worked really hard on footwork and hopefully have some better footwork now. I also worked on my finishing to improve on this as well. I continue to work on it to this day to be the best I can for the season.”
For Blue, the game day atmospheres are second to none and he is ready for those feels again.
“There’s nothing like playing a game where you have a crowd cheering or booing you,” Blue said. “I just really enjoy that environment compared to summer ball. That’s why I’m most excited for the games this year.”
The hope is that Blue and the Tigers can quickly
gel so they can be a factor in AVCTL Division II.
“Some goals I have for the season are I would love for the team to win league this season,” Blue said. “I hope we can do this through a good team chemistry and hard work. I feel that our team can be really good if we come together and I’m super excited to see what we can become.”
Maize South’s Skylar Seals
By Matt Browning
Maize South’s Skylar Seals stands just 5-6, so she knows she has to utilize her strength against opponents.
“My personal goal for the year is to be physically stronger,” Seals said. “I am not a big girl so when it comes to 50/50 balls I feel more often I lose them due to my lack of strength. This has forced my mindset to get bigger and better to be able to compete with girls at greater heights than myself.”
The Mavericks were one of the top teams in Class 5A last season, going 24-2 and losing in the state title game.
Seals has not forgotten that final game.
“This season is a revenge year for the Lady Mavs,” Seals said. “We fell short in the state championship to a solid (Topeka) Seaman team last year so getting back to be in that position again is what gets my adrenaline going.”
Throughout the summer and fall months, the Maize South coaching staff was getting Seals and her teammates ready to go for the upcoming season.
“We have detailed summer workouts from our coaches that are crucial in shaping us as athletes physically and mentally,” Seals said “Due to being in a fall sport while preseason is going on it has limited me in certain areas but I like to get some individual practice in on my own outside of that.”
The goals for Seals and the Mavericks are simple.
“I have big expectations for my team this year,” Seals said. “They have put in the work and deserve everything that comes out of it. Our goals consist of winning the Lady Cat Classic again in El Dorado, being back-to-back league champs and overall ending the season as 5A’s best.”
Bishop Carroll’s Lilly Martin
By Matt Browning
Lilly Martin from Bishop Carroll likes to play fast and be aggressive, but she also knows there is a difference between playing fast and playing reckless.
So she tried to find that proper balance during the summer.
“In the offseason I worked a lot with the coaches at Kansas United on playing fast but slowing down my mind while playing in order to stay in control,” Martin said. “This offseason I focused on increasing my speed, explosive power, and injury prevention exercises in the gym.
To go along with her speed, Martin also worked on becoming a better shooter at all levels of the floor.
“I want to improve my ability to stay in control while I play and improve my mid-range pull ups and three point shooting,” Martin said. “I also worked on my mid-range pull ups with Gayla (Soyez) to avoid the massive posts in the lane.”
Bishop Carroll made the Class 5A state tournament last season and Martin is determined to get her team, which is really a tight-knit group, back there again.
“I am most excited to get to play with my teammates and coaches one last time,” Martin said. “I am excited to have fun with my teammates at practices and pregame and to hopefully have one last run at the state tournament.”
Valley Center’s Taylor McDonald
By Matt Browning
The Valley Center girls basketball team lost plenty of scoring from last year’s team, so Taylor McDonald understands she needs to step into that role.
“I think I need to be more aggressive around the basket, and potentially call my own number a little bit more,” McDonald said. “We’re losing some scoring, and last year I didn’t play with as much confidence as I probably could have. If I can develop just a couple more post moves as we go into the season I think it will help open things up for the rest of my team.”
There was a specific type of training focused on during the summer months.
“I was focused in the off season on improving my athleticism,” McDonald said. “Specifically focusing on power, plyometric training (touching 10’ 6” right now), which translates into both of my sports (volleyball and basketball). Unfortunately I wasn’t able to focus too much on basketball specific, due to volleyball commitments, however I feel like I’ll be more dangerous this coming year as I’ve had another year to grow physically.”
McDonald has had so much success throughout her high school basketball career, so she is excited to see what this group of seniors can accomplish this season.
“We’ve got a great group of seniors, that collectively we went undefeated my freshman year while on JV,” McDonald said. “Further, likely this will be my last year playing basketball, which makes it the only year I’ll potentially get to share the floor with my younger sister who is a freshman this year.”
Valley Center’s Anna Duncan
By Matt Browning
Valley Center’s Anna Duncan has no issue with confidence on the defensive side of the basketball court.
She is now hoping to take that confidence to her offensive game.
“I struggle at times with my confidence on the offensive side, but this year being a senior, I will need to take the lead in that role and put tons of shots up,” Duncan said. “Our leading scorer was a senior last year, and those are some big shoes to fill, so I am going to fill those shoes the best I can. I want to really improve on my scoring abilities but also my ball handling, and my confidence in taking the ball to the rim. In the offseason during club ball I looked more for open shots and shot the ball more.”
Duncan spent the entire summer playing basketball and then volleyball during the fall. Both have helped her in a variety of ways for the upcoming season.
“In the offseason I play club basketball,”
Duncan said. “That goes on through the whole summer, along with school weights, and some basketball trainings. I also play volleyball so that keeps me active during the fall season.”
Becoming a better offensive player is something Duncan hopes translates to more
accolades and awards after the season.
“Some goals I have for myself is to hopefully receive first or second team honors,” Duncan said. “I want to improve my game overall and be a leader on the court. Another personal goal I have is to have confidence in myself and to just play the game I know how to play.”
Valley Center’s Austin Saner
By Matt Browning
Being able to utilize both hands has been a focal point throughout the offseason for Valley Center’s Austin Saner.
“One of the ways I need to improve my game is definitely my left hand,” Saner said. “I have been working my left hand very hard to get it feeling like my dominant hand.”
Saner has been playing basketball at Valley Center for three years and it has now become a family affair.
“I’ve had so much fun playing basketball these last three years,” Saner said. “One of those guys being my brother Bryson. He’s always been there for me pushing me in practice and just making me a better player overall. I couldn’t be more excited to play with these guys.”
There are plenty of goals Saner has his eyes on this season.
“A goal I have for myself this year is to achieve first team all-state and first allleague,” Saner said. “Another goal I have for myself is to just go play basketball. I feel as if I play better when I go out
there and play, have fun and enjoy the game. A team goal I have is to win. Coming off of last year, many teams are looking down on us but I know with the guys I have I know we can be a threat this year.”
Hours
Mon-Thursday: 3pm-11 pm
Fri-Saturday: 12pm-2am
Sunday: 3pm-8pm
Kitchen closes at 10pm daily Sunday 8pm
Valley Center’s Colby Newton
By Matt Browning
To put it mildly, Valley Center’s Colby Newton worked on his game throughout the offseason.
“First off physically I figured out during the last season that there were too many players bigger and stronger than I was,” Newton said. “So I first worked to gain weight as I went from 155 pounds to 175 during the off-season. As well as all summer having 6:30am workouts to gain strength and athleticism; always pushing to become a better athlete. Next all the basketball work. I played AAU ball on the Puma Circuit for Kansas Select. This helped me a ton with playing some of the best players I’ve ever gone against.”
While Newton averaged 12 points per game last season, he still wants to be more confident on the offensive end.
“Something I’ve really wanted to do this offseason is one grow confidence in my game and two becoming more consistent on offense,” Newton said. “How I’ve done this is one training and working to improve those skills. But the main thing is just playing a ton getting used to getting a lot of shots up and getting a ton of repetition. What I’m most excited about for this upcoming basketball is being able to see my improvement from this past year. From all the time and effort I’ve put in during this off-season to improve my game.”
Newton is confident his hard work will pay off, so much so that he has lofty goals for himself.
“The goals I have for myself are pretty big goals,” Newton said. “My goals are to one average 20 5 and 5 which would be a huge accomplishment for me.”
Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Corbin Johnson
By Matt Browning
Corbin Johnson of Kapaun Mount Carmel got to experience big-time basketball over the summer and now he can’t get enough of it.
“I played on the Adidas circuit this summer, traveling across the country playing against some of the best competition in the country,” Johnson said. “I love playing on the biggest stage. It was really cool to play in front of college coaches I see on TV.”
Johnson’s numbers last season were gaudy. He averaged 16 points, five rebounds and four assists per game. He also shot 53 percent from the threepoint line.
Now Johnson wants to be a better athlete to go along with being an elite basketball player, so that it translates to the next level.
“One area I want to work on is my athleticism I’ve been working on it nonstop,” Johnson said. “I’ve been working with a trainer who’s really knowledgeable and has helped me out a ton. Also, I’ve been practicing dunking every chance that I get which is helping my vertical. I wanted to work on my athleticism because it will help every aspect of my game and that’s where I think I need to improve the most on getting ready for the next level.”
Kapaun has one of the top programs in the state and the accountability that is held by the older players for the new players is crucial to the consistency.
Johnson understands how valuable that was for him and he wants to pass that down to the next wave of Crusaders.
“As an individual I want to be a leader, especially to the young guys,” Johnson said. “I want to pass down the knowledge that the older guys gave me when I was younger.”
JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS
Andover’s Aliyah Green Andover’s Josh Kim
By Matt Browning
As a first team all-league selection last season, Andover’s Aliyah Green was one of the most prolific scorers in the AVCTL.
Now heading into her senior season, Green hopes to expand her offensive game.
“This year I really want to work on improving my jump shot,” Green said. “I worked on it over the summer and really started to utilize it at the end of our summer season. I tried to get in the gym five times a week to do something with a jump shot over the summer.”
Not only was Green in the gym for individual workouts, but she also played games all summer.
“During the offseason I have been doing a lot,” Green said. “I played AAU for my last summer so we have practice and training 3 times a week. We also traveled almost every weekend and for two weeks straight in July playing in the Select 40 circuit. On top of that I did strength and agility training to stay in shape. We went to a few team camps over the summer as well.”
The Trojans were just a few points away from a state title last season and that has stuck with Green.
“My goal this season is to leave it all on the floor,” Green said. “Last year we went to state and were four points away from the championship game and I don’t want to feel like that going out my senior year.”
By Matt Browning
Andover’s Josh Kim had a stellar junior season as he averaged 15 points per game and was selected first team allleague.
One would think he would keep things status quo heading into his senior year. Not so fast.
“The offseason has been a lot more different than the previous ones,” Kim said. “I have been lifting six days a week while playing basketball every day. Trainings have been intense and I have really focused on my shooting and athleticism.”
With the hope and anticipation of playing college basketball, Kim was focused on two areas of his game throughout the offseason.
“I would love to improve in my free throw consistency and defensive presence,” Kim said. “The past few years I haven’t had the best free throw percentages, but through countless of workouts and studying my shot form on tape. For my defensive goal, I have studied multiple college techniques and defensive coaching to improve my defense. I am confident that both areas will improve this season.”
The Andover boys basketball team won the Class 5A championship a year ago and it was a feeling unlike anything Kim has ever felt.
“The feeling of winning a 5A State Championship was unlike any other victory, so winning it twice in my high school career would be amazing,” Kim said. “I’m really just excited to play with this group of talented guys my final year of high school and enjoy the last season with my coaching staff who I’ve grown super close to. They mean so much to me and have taught me so much over these last few years while giving me trust at such a young age, so I’m very excited to have a successful season with them this year.”
Hutchinson’s Terrell King
By Matt Browning
Terrell King thinks the Hutchinson boys basketball team has something special on the horizon.
“I’m most excited about this team because we have great chemistry and just a good relationship with everyone,” King said.
With King being an all-state football player, it is has been difficult for him to get prepared for the upcoming season.
“I’ve been working out and getting in the gym and getting shots up with the team as much as possible,” King said.
King was a solid scorer for the Salthawks last season, averaging almost 16 points per game, while also shooting 37 percent from behind the threepoint line.
“I want to improve my ability to shoot the ball better so that it’s harder to guard me,” King said. “I’ve been getting a lot of shots during the off season.”
Now a senior, King recognizes he has responsibilities that he hasn’t had to deal with or embrace over his previous three seasons. He thinks if he can get better at this, then Hutchinson will be better for it.
“I want to be a better leader and captain of this team,” King said. “And to win as many games as possible.”
Andover’s Katie Evans
By Matt Browning
The Andover girls basketball team lost some significant talent off last season’s team that went 24-1, so returning allleague honorable mention selection Katie Evans understands she has to take her game to a whole new level this season.
“This year I am wanting to improve on my midrange jump shot,” Evans said.
“I have been working on some moves off of the catch into a midrange shot to allow myself to get reps and get a more consistent feel for it. I feel I have been getting more consistent with it allowing it to feel more natural and will hopefully turn into a second nature option that I will be able to see in the moment more often.”
Evans has been known for her defensive ability, while also being able to knock down the perimeter shot. Even though she does want to expand her game, she also knows the best way for her to impact the game is what she has always done.
“I want to continue to be aggressive on defense and get the other team flustered to allow my team to get going offensively and defensively,” Evans said. “I also want to be a consistent threat from three for my team, allowing myself to hit when I need to but also be able to dish and set up my teammates for their shot.”
The time and effort Evans put in during the offseason is already paying off.
“I have really enjoyed my weights and conditioning workouts as they have helped me grow physically and mentally stronger,” Evans said. “The conditioning as well has been super beneficial and is helping me gain endurance and strength.”
Ark City’s Saliyah Johnson
By Matt Browning
Ark City’s Saliyah Johnson’s numbers last season speak for themselves. She averaged nearly 14 points and five rebounds per game.
But she wants to be a different type of player this season.
“A goal I have for myself this upcoming season is to be more of a vocal leader on and off of the court,” Johnson said. “A goal as a team is we have to have good team chemistry and also just win possessions because that is what hurt us a lot last year.”
While Johnson’s stats garnered her allleague accolades last season, she still wants to improve her offensive game.
“This year I really want to improve on my shooting because that’s where I feel I struggle the most,” Johnson said. “I did a lot of shooting drills the during off-season and it has helped a lot. In the off-season I was playing travel ball with the Kansas bluejays and I’ve been in the gym lifting and working on a lot of my basketball skills.”
The Bulldogs won just seven games a year ago, but Johnson is confident this year will
be different.
“What I am most excited about for this season is to see what we can do,” Johnson said. “I believe we have a pretty solid team than we have in the past and I feel like we can really do something this year. “
Newton’s Tatum Suderman
By Matt Browning
Shortly after the 2023-2024 season, Newton’s Tatum Suderman had to have knee surgery, which meant she lost some valuable offseason time.
But rather than sitting idly by, Suderman decided to put in the hard work so that she comes back better than ever.
“I went to physical therapy and worked on flexion, mobility, and building strength,” Suderman said. “I was cleared to start running in August and started playing pickup at the end of September. On August 20th, I started a challenge to make 18,000 shots before our season started.”
Obviously, Suderman made it a point to become a better shooter this season.
“I think the 18,000 makes in three-months challenge has definitely helped,” Suderman said. “In the summer, shooting was about the only thing I could work on while I couldn’t run and cut.”
There is a tournament that Newton plays early in the season that sets the tone for the rest of the season and Suderman is excited to play in it again.
“I’m really looking forward to starting our season at the Hays Tournament,” Suderman said. “Last December, we had so much fun and everyone is looking forward to returning. I think it’s a great opportunity for team bonding and setting the tone for the rest of our season.”
Finally, Suderman has a team goal in mind that she thinks is attainable for the Railers this season.
“The biggest goal I have for us this year is to win at least eight games,” Suderman said. “This would be the most any of us seniors have won in a season during our four years.”
Newton’s Maddox Williams
By Matt Browning
Working on his shot was the most important aspect to Newton’s Maddox Williams during the offseason and he put in a ton of time doing so.
“In the offseason I was in the weight room a lot which is one thing I wanted to fix but my main thing I wanted to fix was getting my shot faster and more consistent,” Williams said. “I met that goal by getting up 300-500 shots every day to get better.”
Not only did Williams did get in thousands of shots in over the summer, but he also competed against elite competition.
“This summer the main thing I have been doing is training,” Williams said. “I have been to two camps this summer and a big one was the KU camp, I have also been in the weight room all summer and all off season, but most of all I have been in the gym all summer long, whether it’s just shooting or training.”
There are several levels to being a good leader and Williams is hoping he can get to all of those levels.
“I am most excited about this season because I am excited to take the leadership role of being an upperclassman,” Williams
said. “We also had a very productive offseason. We had a lot of young guys who bought in and showed a ton of commitment this summer. Some goals I have for this year is definitely having a better team chemistry and getting along with everyone better.”
Andover Central’s Jayden Brown
By Matt Browning
There is no doubting Andover Central’s Jayden Brown on the basketball court. The senior guard averaged 18 points, three rebounds and two assists per game on his way to being selected first team all-league.
But now Brown wants to improve the off the court part of his game.
“I’m wanting to improve my leadership,” Brown said. “I stepped into that role last year, but as I look back I could’ve done a lot better and I believe I know what it takes to be a good leader for our team and I look forward to providing that for us. I’ve worked on my leadership by just building that confidence with a lot of hard work I’ve put in the gym. Also the countless phone calls with coach just knowing he has confidence in me to be a leader for this team and telling me what It takes just gives me more confidence for my senior year.”
While it’s difficult to imagine Brown getting better, he focused on his strength throughout the offseason.
“I’ve been hitting the weights extremely hard to get stronger,” Brown said. “I dedicated lifting this offseason which I haven’t done previously. I train three times a week with my personal trainer Adrian Maloney Jr., who’s been training me since fifth grade.”
Much of Brown’s workouts this summer were individual ones, so just getting to play against
competition is one thing he is looking forward to this season.
“I’m most excited about getting on the court and just playing in general,” Brown said. “The offseason is a lot of just solo work, so I’m pretty excited to compete versus someone other than myself.”
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4A TEAMS TO WATCH
BOYS
Returning four seniors, Andale is hoping they can improve on their 15-6 finish last season. Andale is led by Austin Baalmann, who averaged 15.3 points per game which earned him second team all-state and first team all-league. Baalmann is also joined by senior returners Harrison Potucek, Bo Kaiser and Ben Molitor.
After a 13-9 season, Wellington returns four starters in 6-4 senior guard Carter Burnett and 6-3 senior forward Brody Weir, as well as 6-1 senior guards Dusty Bannister and Grady Norris. Head coach Joe Newman is entering his seventh season and also believes that with this experienced group, if they stay focused, they have potential to have a great season. Circle returns only to players from their last two seasons. With a new roster, new roles open up and head coach Jordan Crawford is looking to fill those spots early in the season. The two returners for circle are seniors Landon Boldra and Keaton Koeingsman. Boldra last year was second team all-league and Koeingsman earned honorable mention.
With a very young team this season, Mulvane is hoping their competitive spirit and toughness will carry them deep into the postseason. Head coach Tommy Brumbelow believes that even though this team is young, their determination to win will help them succeed. The Wildcats are led by junior Manny Myers, who Brumbelow believes is the point guard that this team needs.
CLASS 4A PLAYERS TO WATCH
ABILENE COWBOYS
League: NCKL
BOYS
Head Coach: Kyle Becker, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-8
2021: 13-6
2022: 16-7
GIRLS
Returning 10 players from Wellington’s 23-2 squad, head coach Eric Adams in his ninth year, believes the combination of their returners and a talented incoming freshman class will make for a special season for the Crusaders. The crusaders are led by sophomore Brit Zeka, who last year averaged 14 points per game.
Coming off of a first round loss in the state tournament, Andale is returning most of their players from last year’s state qualifying team. Andale is led by five returning starters in seniors Maddie Lies and Taya Orth and junior Brooke Grimes, as well as sophomores Edyn Stolz and Abbi Winter.
With increased participation this summer and with the return of three starters, Clearwater is looking to improve on their 15-8 record. Head coach Casey Carlson is also impressed with the work this team has put in over this summer to get better. Clearwater is led by junior Justine Berlin, who last year averaged 10 points per game.
After graduating all five senior starters last year, Mulvane is looking to rely on their defense to generate offense this year. Since they are young they are going to be looking for players to step into bigger roles. One player that head coach Nicole Psechel is looking to step up is senior Olivia Eliis, who was sixth man for the Wildcats last year.
To succeed this year head coach John Darrow wants complete commitment from his entire team and unselfishness. Darrow also wants Buhler to play to their advantages of depth and experience. Buhler is led by seniors Gracie Oard, who last year scored 9.3 points per game and Natalya Krafels, who scored 9.7 a game.
BOYS
Austin Baalman, Andale
Landon Boldra, Circle
Carter Burnett, Wellington
Isaiah Heredia, Buhler
Zander Ford, Rose Hill
Keaton Koenigsman, Circle
Christian Moree, Winfield
Manny Myers, Mulvane
Harrison Potucek, Andale
GIRLS
Lyndi Barton, Wellington
Justine Berlin, Clearwater
Ella Bourm, Augusta
Madison Clevenger, Clearwater
Brooke Grimes, Andale
Jenna Hadley, El Dorado
Emma Johnson, Circle
Natalya Krafels, Buhler
Val Norwood, Wellington
Gracie Oard, Buhler
Taya Orth, Andale
London Soto, Circle
Abbi Winter, Andale
Brit Zeka, Wellington
2023: 11-11
2024: 19-4
Key returning players: Tyler Holloway, 6-5, sr., C; Ian Crump, 6-4, sr., G; Weston Rock, 6-0, sr., G; Taygen Funston, 6-1, jr., G
Coach Becker says:
“We return four guys that played significant varsity minutes last year and we have several guys that are
ready to step in and fill roles at the varsity level. We have a great group of guys looking to continue and build on the success of last year.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Shawn Herrman, 3rd season
Last five seasons: 2020: 6-16
2021: 5-14
2022: 3-18
2023: 2-18
2024: 0-21
Key returning players: Kit Barbieri, 5-11, so., F; Jadence Coyle, 5-0, jr., G; Kailee Crane, 5-7, jr., G
Coach Herrman says:
“We are young and athletic with returning players who saw some varsity minutes last year.
We had a great summer and saw some new and returning players step up in some new roles. With our athleticism we should be able to do some new things that we weren’t able to last year.”
ANDALE INDIANS
League: AVCTL DIV
BOYS
Head Coach: Jeff Buchanan, 19th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-7
2021: 10-12
2022: 18-7
2023: 13-9
2024: 15-6
Key returning players: Austin Baalmann, 6-3, sr., G; Harrison Potucek 6-1, sr., G; Bo Kaiser, 6-3, sr., G
Coach Buchanan says: “We enjoyed a great off-season where we saw tremendous improvement by many individuals on our team. I also believe their hard work and commitment to our ‘TEAM’ philosophy will produce even more improvement as we compete throughout the season.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Clint Robinson, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-6
2021: 18-6
2022: 18-5
2023: 20-5
2024: 14-9
Key returning players: Maddie Lies, 5-6, sr., G; Taya Orth, 5-4,
sr., G; Brooke Grimes, 5-7, jr., G
Coach Robinson says: “Continuing our defensive approach to the game will be key throughout the season. Couple of seniors lead the way this year with young players that have varsity experience. Will need to build chemistry early and establish depth throughout the season.”
AUGUSTA ORIOLES
League: AVCTL DIII
BOYS
Head Coach: Ryan Petty, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 19-4
2021: 7-14
2022: 13-9
2023: 6-16
2024: 6-15
Key returning players: Brecken Albert, 6-0, jr., G; Brody Haskell, 6-0, jr., G
Coach Petty says: “We are young and very inexperienced but we expect to get better every single day. We only return two players who have played any varsity basketball but they are two very good junior guards who have played a lot of varsity basketball. We have an extremely talented freshman and sophomore class who will come in and push for playing time right away.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Krysten Crawford, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: 3-18
Davidson, State Farm Agent
2021: 6-14
2022: 9-12
2023: 6-15
2024: 6-15
Key returning players: Ella Bourm, 5-7, sr., G; Emma Bourm, 5-7, sr., G; Grace Belknap, 5-7, sr., G
Coach Crawford says: “For this upcoming season we are returning four starters from last year and looking to build upon that experience. We are focusing our efforts on being a team driven by integrity, discipline and hard work. We are also striving to build a positive team culture that shows on and off the court.”
BUHLER CRUSADERS
League: AVCTL DIII
BOYS
Head Coach: Eric Tate, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: 15-8
2021: 15-6
2022: 18-5
2023: 8-13
2024: 5-16
Key returning players: Isaiah Heredia, 5-11, jr., PG; Julian Morrison, 6-1, sr., F; Mitchel McDaniel, 5-10, sr., G
Coach Tate says: “We should have great depth and be able to push the pace in transition in waves. The team put in a lot of hard work in the weight room and on the court this summer. We hit the ground running and picked up on new philosophies and had good attendance and buy in.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: John Darrow, 2nd season
Last five seasons: 2020: 14-9
2021: 4-17
2022: 4-17
2023: 8-13
2024: 11-10
Key returning players: Ella Voss, 5-5, so., G; Gracie Oard, 5-6, sr., G; Natayla Krafels, 5-9, sr., F; Charley Baxter, 5-8, sr., F; Claudia Taylor, 5-6, sr., G
Coach Darrow says: “Our key to success will be the commitment from our entire group to buy into the unselfishness that’s necessary for us to be successful this year. We have to own our identity as a team that plays tough, disciplined, and together. This group has great balance.”
CHAPMAN IRISH League: NCK
BOYS
Head Coach: Andrew Kraxner, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: 7-13
2021: 3-15
2022: 0-15
2023:4-17
2024: 8-13
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Kraxner says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
GIRLS
Head Coach: Michael Wahlmeier, 4th season
Kathy Richard-Koenigsman, State Farm Agent
Last five seasons:
2020: 18-5
2021: 1-17
2022: 8-13
2023: 13-9
2024: 8-13
Key returning players: Avery Baer, 5-7, jr., PG; Adelynn Kirkpatrick, 5-7, jr., SF; Jai Rogers, 5-6, so., G
Coach Wahlmeier says: “We are going to have to focus on our speed on both the offensive and defensive ends of the court. We are not tall so a high pressure defense will be important.”
CIRCLE THUNDERBIRDS
League: AVCTL DIII
BOYS
Head Coach: Jordan Crawford, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-16
2021: 6-16
2022: 11-10
2023: 19-4
2024: 19-3-1
Key returning players: Landon Boldra, 6-2, sr., PG; Keaton Koeingsman, 6-2, sr., G; Clay Gilbertson, 6-3, sr., F
Coach Crawford says: “Most of the roster will be first year varsity players. A new roster brings on new roles and responsibilities. How quickly this roster will come together is yet to be determined.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Brian Henry, 19th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 12-9
2021: 14-9
2022: 22-3
2023: 19-6
2024: 15-7
Key returning players: Emma Johnson, 5-8, sr., G; Izzy Marley, 5-10, sr., F; Lauren Swiley, 5-7, jr., F
Coach Henry says: “Circle returns four letter winners from last year’s squad, but will lack much experience off the bench. The T-Birds hope to build off a successful season last year.”
CLAY CENTER TIGERS
League: NCKL
BOYS
Head Coach: Travis Smith, Shetlar, 6th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 5-16
2021: 4-16
2022: 9-12
2023: 9-14
2024: 10-11
Key returning players: Jace Weller, 6-2, sr., G; Cole Pladson, 5-10, sr., G; Weston Hammond, 5-11, sr., G
Coach Smith says: “This is a great group and I expect great things. They have a ton of leadership and varsity experience and I think they have the potential to go far. Just like every year we will be making some adjustments to try to help, but it should be a lot of fun this year.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Dalston Haist, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 17-6
2021: 22-1
2022: 16-7
2023: 11-10
2024: 14-9-1
Key returning players: Raegan McDonald, 6-0, sr., C; Ayla Johnson, 6-0, sr., F; Janae
Crimmins, 5-9, sr., G
Coach Haist says: “This year’s team brings back a lot of experience, with four seniors leading the helm. We had a lot of learning opportunities last year in close games, where we didn’t come out on top. I’m personally hoping that our experience helps us get over that hump this year and finish close games down the stretch.”
CLEARWATER INDIANS
League: AVCTL DIV
BOYS
Head Coach: Jonathan Dykstal, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 15-7
2021: 7-13
2022: 12-9
2023: 0-20
2024: 5-16
Key returning players: Trent Fisher, 6-0, sr., G; Gage Clevenger, 5-10, sr., SG; Isaac Smith, 6-2 sr., G
Coach Dykstal says: “I’m feeling optimistic about the upcoming season. The team has shown great potential during preseason training, and there’s a strong sense of camaraderie among the players. With our key strategies in place and a commitment to improving each game, I believe we can achieve some exciting results.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Casey Carlson, 7th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 12-9
2021: 14-9
2022: 22-3
2023: 19-6
2024: 15-8
Key returning players: Kaylee Hampton, 5-10, sr., G; Justine Berlin, 6-1, jr., F; Madi Clevenger, 5-7, jr., G
Coach Carlson says: “We have a very experienced group of players returning this year, three starters and two players that played a lot of minutes off the bench last year. I was extremely pleased with what I saw from the group this summer in terms of their growth in learning how to score. We had the best summer in terms of participation that I have had in the past seven years.”
CONCORDIA PANTHERS
League: NCKL
BOYS
Head Coach: Shane Traughber, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: 4-17
2021: 10-12
2022: 14-7
2023: 10-11
2024: 13-9
Key returning players: Peyton Retter, 6-0, sr., G; Chane Parker, 6-4, jr., F; Lukas Donovan, 6-4, sr., F
Coach Traughber says: “We will have a mix of a couple returning starters along with quite a few sophomores and freshmen in our rotation. It will be a new head coach and a new system to go along with all those new, young players, so it will be a fresh start full of excitement, but also growing pains, and we hope to find our identity and be playing our best basketball at the end of the year.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Trey Kuhlman, 4th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 2-19
2021: 9-13
2022: 4-17
2023: 7-15
2024: 13-9
Key returning players: Taylor McDaniel, 5-11, sr., F; Kinsleigh Bethune, 5-3, sr., G; Charlize Cash, 5-5, jr., G
Coach Kuhlman says: “Our biggest goal for this season is to build off where we finished last year. Our girls are not satisfied finishing runnerup at sub-state and want to reach the state tournament.”
EL DORADO WILDCATS
League: AVCTL DIV
BOYS
Head Coach: Drew Culbertson, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 5-17
2021: 4-17
2022: 14-8
2023: 3-17
2024: 2-19
Key returning players: Sam Greene, 6-3, sr., F; Abrahm Pena, 5-7, sr., G; Zac Jacobs, 6-2, sr., F
Coach Culbertson says: “Will have a nice mix of young guys and experienced players. Our team chemistry seems to be better than the past couple years. I’m looking forward to seeing our improvement.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Brett Gunderson, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 3-19
2021: 0-17
2022: 1-19
2023: 4-18
2024: 1-19
Key returning players: Addison Hull, 5-10, jr., F; Jenna Hadley,
5-6, jr., G; Kenly Edwards, 5-6, jr., F
Coach Gunderson says: “The girls grew as a group last year and battled all season. We did have the opportunity to play a lot of underclassmen many of whom were freshmen. We will be extremely young again this year having only one senior. The girls did a great job of buying into the weight room and summer workouts. I do know this group is ready and they want to keep the growth going.”
MCPHERSON BULLPUPS
League: AVCTL DIII
BOYS
Head Coach: Kurtis Kinnamon, 30th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-8
2021: 13-11
2022: 15-10
2023: 20-5
2024: 26-0
Key returning players: Gabe Pyle, 6-5, sr., G; Jett Pyle, 6-0, jr., G; Ian Razak, 6-3, sr., F
Coach Kinnamon says: “We will be relatively young and inexperienced, but do return three players that were significant in our state championship. Seniors Gabe Pyle first team (all-state 4A, AVCTL MVP), Ian Razak and junior Jett Pyle.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Clint Kinnamon, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: 22-1
2021: 21-4
2022: 15-7
2023: 22-3
2024: 19-5-1
Key returning players: Ellie Bower, 5-9, sr., G; Izabel Backhus, 5-9, sr., F; Brooke Dolie, 5-8, jr., G
Coach Kinnamon says: “Our players will do all of the little things that are winning plays. First to the floor for loose balls, boxout/rebound, take charges, not get screened, and talk to name a few. We do have several who have shot a pretty high percentage from three in past seasons.”
MULVANE WILDCATS
League: AVCTL DIII
BOYS
Head Coach: Tommy Brumbelow, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-12
2021: 16-5
2022: 6-14
2023: 7-14
2024: 14-7
Key returning players: Manny Myers, 5-11, jr., G; Braylon Barnes, 6-4, so., C; Canon Lazier, 6-1, jr., G
Coach Brumbelow says: “This year’s varsity basketball team may be one of the youngest in the conference but don’t underestimate their competitive spirit and toughness. Throughout the summer, offseason, and fall, they’ve consistently demonstrated a fierce determination to win, whether on the football field or in the weight room.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Nicole Peschel, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 2-19
2021: 3-16
2022: 8-13
2023: 10-12
2024: 10-11
Key returning players: Olivia Ellis, 5-6, sr., G; Brittani Peschel, 5-4, fr., G
Coach Peschel says:
“We are going to rely on our defense to generate some easy offense for us and will have to limit our turnovers to have success. We have some players who have been working hard in the off season to step into a bigger role for us this year and I am looking forward to seeing how they progress as the year goes along.”
ROSE HILL ROCKETS
League: AVCTL DIV
BOYS
Head Coach: Zach McDaniel, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: 13-10
2021: 15-6
2022: 15-7
2023: 11-10
2024: 12-8-1
Key returning players: Zander Ford, 5-11, so., G
Coach McDaniel says: “Will be looking to gain a lot of varsity experience this season with a new style of basketball. Looking for new guys to step up and take on new roles. Opportunity is wide open for anyone who wants to buy into a first-year coach and do what I am asking them to do on the basketball court.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Jenny Page, 5th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 9-12
2021: 10-9
2022: 2-20
2023: 2-19
2024: 6-15
Key returning players: Ella Swearingen, 5-5, sr., G; Mady Barger, 5-10, sr., F; Ava Markley, 5-6, sr., G
Coach Page says:
“We return most of our players from last year, which should bring some continuity to the
team. We should have several players ready to step in and contribute both on offense and defense. We will still need to find consistent scoring.”
WELLINGTON CRUSADERS
League: AVCTL DIV
BOYS
Head Coach: Joe Newman, 7th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-15
2021: 6-13
2022: 6-15
2023: 15-8
2024: 13-9
Key returning players: Carter Burnett, 6-4, sr., G; Brody Weir, 6-3, sr., F; Dusty Bannister, 6-1, sr., G
Coach Newman says:
“We have an experienced group. With our length and size we should be solid defensively. We aim to be tough on the boards every night. If we can stay focused this group has the potential to put together a great season.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Eric Adams, 9th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 11-10
2021: 11-9
2022: 24-2
2023: 21-2
2024: 23-2
Key returning players: Brit Zeka, 5-10, so., F; Val Norwood, 5-9, so., G; Ashlen Gerten, 5-6, sr., G
Coach Adams says:
“We have 10 varsity players back from last season’s 23-2 squad with a very talented incoming freshman class. Expectations are high in our program and the girls have put a lot of work in this past summer.”
WINFIELD VIKINGS
League: AVCTL DIII
BOYS
Head Coach: Mychael Tripp, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-8
2021: 13-6
2022: 16-7
2023: 11-11
2024: 19-4
Key returning players: Christian Moree, 6-4, sr., F; Evan Hutto, 5-11, jr., G; Drew Graham, 6-1, sr., G;
Coach Tripp says:
“As I am entering my first season as head coach, I can only feel the excitement and desire from everyone to see things turn around for the program. We have four returning starters, two of whom received AllLeague Honors for the AVCTL DIII. We plan to turn things around with a new system, new identity, and a new found intensity, especially on the defensive end.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Jason VenJohn, 13th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 7-14
2021: 9-10
2022: 11-10
2023: 7-14
2024: 3-17
Key returning players: Cerenity Jones, 6-0, sr., C; Leyla Harris, 5-7, sr., G; Brooklyn Mortimer, 5-8, sr., F; Rhyanna Richert, 5-8, sr., F
Coach VenJohn says:
“Our team will be young and inexperienced. However we have four seniors that are hard working hard-nosed kids that are ready to get to work and attack the Season.”
High School Students...
Mulvane’s Olivia Ellis
By Blake Chadwick
Mulvane senior Olivia Ellis is one of the best athletes and shooters in the area.
The senior has been playing basketball for 10 years and was named as an allleague honorable mention player last season.
“Olivia is special because she takes care of business in all facets of her life,” head coach Nicole Peschel said. “She handles her academics, athletics, social life and all other areas with good character and excellent effort. She is a good example for our young players and will be exciting to watch this season.”
Ellis is one of the leaders for this Mulvane program so puts others before herself.
“It is always good as a coach to have a young lady like Olivia Ellis in your program,” Peschel said. “She is extremely coachable and is someone who can be counted on to bring good energy and effort to practice each day. Olivia cares about the little things and works hard to do her part as a leader and a player. She will need to step into more of a consistent scoring threat for us this season with our team graduating much of our offensive production last year but she has spent a great deal of time this offseason preparing for that opportunity.”
The senior is ready for the extra offensive load though as she is gearing up to end her career the right way.
“Right now the record in a game for three point makes is 6,” Ellis said. “My personal goal is I would like to try and beat that. I also want to be a good senior leader for the younger girls on the team.”
Andale’s Austin Baalman
By Blake Chadwick
Very few schools have the same pedigree of winning like the Andale Indians do. But it has been a while since they have won a state championship in basketball and senior Austin Baalman wants to be the one to lead them there.
Baalman averaged 15.3 points per game, 4.2 Rebounds per game and 2.1 assists per game while on the way to being named to the AVCTL first team all-league team and an all-state nominee.
The senior is a guy who can fill it up from all over the court making him a true three-level scorer.
“Austin is a dynamic player that has the ability to shoot at a high
percentage from the perimeter and also finish strong at the rim,” head coach Jeff Buchanan said. “One of Austin’s biggest strengths is his work ethic and dedication to putting in the time on his own to becoming an allaround threat. His motivation to improve and help the team is off the charts. We are excited to see what Austin does on the court this year.”
Baalman has every intention of winning this year, and knows that it starts off the court as well.
“I am going to lead by example and be a vocal leader, making sure guys are not just putting work in at practice, but putting in work after and outside of practice,” Baalman said.
By Cooper Chadwick
Buhler’s Gracie Oard
Priding herself on defense, Buhler’s senior point guard Gracie Oard is hoping to grow and be the best player she can be, on both sides of the ball.
Oard, who had 1.2 steals per game last season, loves the challenge of guarding the other team’s best player. She hopes that drive will help her reach her own individual goals of becoming her leagues defensive player of the year.
Even though Orad is a defensive minded player, that doesn’t mean her offense suffers, averaging 9.8 points and three assists per game as the primary ball handler.
“(Orad) is at her best when she’s attacking down hill and working her pull up 15 footers to 3 point range,” Buhler head coach John Darrow said. “ She will be a great leader for us this year and in everything she does in her future.”
Being a leader is one thing that comes with being a point guard and a senior, that is why Orad has made it a focus this year and something for her to be excited about.
Orad also hopes to continue to improve in many ways as a point guard from last season.
“This year I would love to improve on my assit to turnover ratio. It was not bad last year but I want it to be even better this year,” Orad said. “I worked on my ball handling this off-season and getting as much court time as possible.”
Augusta’s Emma and Ella Bourm
By Cooper Chadwick
Combining for 17 points per game last year Augusta’s senior sister duo of Emma and Ella Bourm are excited to play their final year of high school basketball together.
Both Ella and Emma play basketball together year-round, workout together and push each other to get better constantly.
“Playing with my twin sister has always been fun. We have always been very close. We do argue a lot but we get over it fast,” Ella Bourm said. “We’re very competitive with each other and work extra hard to beat the other one.”
One thing Emma is excited for the upcoming season is having a new head coach, Krysten Crawford.
“The motivation I get this year as a senior comes from having a new coach this year that cares a lot,” Emma Bourm said.
Emma and Ella are both seen as leaders and someone their teammates can count on for Augusta this year and they believe that their hard work will help them lead their team to a deep state run.
“In scrimmages I’ve worked on off-ball defense and being more aggressive. I have been doing plyometrics to increase my quickness and strength,” Ella Bourm said. “Some goals I have for myself this season are more steals and less turnovers.”
Being twins, Emma and Ella have a special connection with each other but on the court it’s even more evident by how well they play
together..
“We know where each other will be on the court. Sometimes it seems like we can read each other’s mind. We are always looking for each other on the court and can depend on each other to catch the ball, make the shot, finish the play,” Ella Bourm said.
Buhler’s Isaiah Heredia
By Cooper Chadwick
Traveling to Kansas City each weekend during the summer, and playing in high level tournaments has just been one thing junior Isaiah Heredia has done to get his name out there.
Heredia also went to lots of camps during the offseason such as various Nike camps and camps run by local colleges.
Heredia, who is a knock down shooter, but can also get to the paint at will, plays point guard for Buhler and poses to be a major threat for teams this upcoming season.
Buhler finished 5-16 last year and Heredia is hoping that his hard work during the offseason will help him and the Crusaders win more games.
“I would come to the school and get a lot of shots up. just shots off the dribble and getting downhill and finishing through contact. to get my shots up I would use the Dr. Dish,” Heredia said.
Last year Heredia earned all-league honorable mention, but despite that he still looks to get better on things he struggles with.
“Some goals that I have for this season
is to get my stats up in scoring and assists,” Heredia said.
As a junior Heredia plays a big role this season as one of his team captains and a leader on this improving Buhler team. Heredia helps lead his team by example rather than barking order because he is not a very vocal player.
Wellington’s Val Norwood and Brit Zeka
By Blake Chadwick
A season ago, Wellington finished second in class 4A after reaching the state championship game and losing to Bishop Miege 75-64.
The Crusaders bring back seniors Val Norwood and Brit Zeka and they are on the quest back to the state championship game where they have some revenge to get.
“Val and Brit represent everything good about a studentathlete, as they represent our community, our school, and our program in a first class way,” head coach Eric Adams said.
Norwood and Zeka have been playing together since they were in elementary and are now both committed to play basketball next season at Lindenwood and Fort Hays state respectively.
“We have great chemistry with one another,” Norwood said. “I can always find her when she’s open and confident that she’ll knock down the three for us. She has great energy and just a joy to be around on and off the court.”
The girls have all the trust in the world for each other and also have the trust of their other teammates.
“The girls on our team have looked to me for leadership since my sophomore year,” Zeka said.
“I know what they and the coaching staff expect from me and they know what I expect from them. This season my main goal as a leader is to get everyone to have the mindset of ‘We are going to win.’ I want to set the tone from our first practice on, that we have to work as hard as possible every single day.”
Zeka has been an all-league first team player all three years including breaking the career threes at Wellington. Norwood has been just as consistent, being named the 4A player of the year, while breaking the career steals and assists record.
McPherson Boys’ Basketball
By Cooper Chadwick
After winning the Class 4A Tournament last season, this young McPherson Bullpups team has some big shoes to fill, but head coach Kurtis Kinnamon believes they can do so.
McPherson is led by senior Gabe Pyle, who last year averaged 17 points per game and 5 rebounds. Pyle earned CO-4A Player of the Year and other honors.
Pyle is not the only returner for the Bullpups. Kinnamon believes that senior Ian Razak and junior Jett Pyle will also make a difference for a young and inexperienced McPherson team.
Kinnamon, who is entering his 30th year being the head coach for the Bullpups, believes that his team can go far if they do the right things night in and night out.
“I expect we will compete hard every night. We will have to develop some depth throughout the season and hopefully can avoid injury,” Kinnamon said.
Pyle reiterates this as well and he believes that to win he just needs to do what Kinnamon says and he will help his team get where they want to go, the
state championship game.
“Some individual goals are just to do whatever Coach Kinnamon needs me to do this year in order to win. If it is me having to guard the other team’s best player, I will do it. If it is scoring, I will do it. All I am focused on is winning and taking each game one by one,” Pyle said.
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Circle’s Landon Boldra
By Cooper Chadwick
College basketball is the goal for senior Landon Boldra and he believes the work he put in on his body will have him ready to get there.
Boldra’s biggest motivation for this season and basketball in general is to play the sport he loves at the next level.
“Basketball has been my passion from a very young age, and so much so that I was dribbling a ball at the age of one and better yet dribbling while sprinting with either hand at the age of three,” Boldra said.
Boldra, a 6’2 point guard for Circle High school, was heavily focused on gaining weight during this offseason.
“This offseason I have really put my time in the weight room to increase my muscle mass as I have grown substantially,” Boldra said. “I would really like to focus on improving by being a more physical downhill player.”
As a senior, Boldra is forced into a leadership position but unlike most he is ready to grab the reins.
“I am really excited for this upcoming season because I get the opportunity to lead a young team. I am also super excited to get another opportunity to compete at the state tournament and make a run,” Boldra said.
Apart from being in the weight room and lifting, Boldra played a lot of basketball during the offseason.
“During the summer I played at the MAYB National tournament. I have also been playing in a 3v3 league against other local talent,” Boldra said.
By Cooper Chadwick
Andale’s Brooke Grimes
Confidence is not something junior Brooke Grimes lacks, and it goes back to all the extra time she devoted to become a greater shooter.
Last year Andale’s shooting guard broke the record for most three pointers made in a season and tied the record for most in a game, as a sophomore.
In the spring of 2024, Grimes sustained an injury that needed surgery, which kept her out of summer games and camps, but she has been working and is ready for the upcoming season.
Andale’s head girls basketball coach Clint Robinson spoke very highly of Grimes, her work ethic, love for the game and positive attitude on and off the court.
Grimes last year was one of Andale’s key players, so this year she is taking a big step into the role of a leader on this young Andale team.
“I want to be seen as a leader on and off the court for my team and be able to be looked up to from my underclassmen and respected by my upperclassmen,” Grimes said.
Grimes last year averaged 12.7 points per game, shooting 32.5 percent from three, which helped her earn second team all-state and first team allleague.
Last year Andale finished fourth at state with a young team and Grimes believes they have what it
takes to exceed that fourth place finish.
“Our goal is to be state champions and I think our chemistry is getting stronger everyday together. I think it will be a big part of our season this year,” Grimes said. “I am super excited to see how well we are going to work together this season.”
Amalachi Wilkins, Wichita Heights High School, Washburn Basketball
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Gabrielle Gaither, Maize South High School, Friends Softball
Lizzy Lassley, Maize South High School, Butler Softball
Skylin Sartain, Bishop Carroll High School, Hutchinson CC Cheer
Genevieve LeMarche, Maize South High School, North Dakota State Soccer
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3A TEAMS TO WATCH
BOYS
Wichita Collegiate has not won a state championship since 2016, but the Spartans have the roster to get it done this season. Back for Collegiate is Sebastian Hines-Turner, who was a first team all-state selection last year. Also back is A.J. Baptiste, who was averaging 22 points per game before he hurt his knee before Christmas.
Josh Burdick, who was a selected to the first team all-league, is back for Cheney, who lost in the first round of the state tournament. The Cardinals also return Jase Robertson, who made honorable mention all-league. Assuming other players step up, Cheney can get back to the state tournament again.
Hesston returns three starters from last season’s team that won 18 games last season. The Swathers’ top returning player is Reed Friesen, who averaged nearly 16 points per game. Also back is Asher Deutschendorf and Daniel Lumbreras. After missing the state tournament last season, Hesston has the roster to get back in 2025.
Only one player graduated off Haven’s 16-win team last season. Gatlin Rinehart, Dalton Bontrager and Nash Wray were the Wildcats’ top scorers last season and are back this season. Haven fell short of the state tournament a year ago, but has the talent to get there this year.
Kolton Shaffer is back for Wichita Trinity, who even though went 11-11 a year ago, has the roster to eclipse that this year. Underclassmen Jesse Eklund is also back for the Knights, who can compete for the Central Plains League title.
CLASS 3A PLAYERS TO WATCH
BELLE PLAINE
DRAGONS
League: CPL
BOYS
Head Coach: Jarod Meier, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-5
2021: 14-6
2022: 4-17
2023: 13-10
2024: 5-18
Key returning players: Tristan Wasser, 6-0, sr., G; Karver Harlan, 5-9, sr., G; Ryder Main, 6-1, sr., F; Nick Pace, 6-0, sr., G
Coach Meier says:
“As a first year coach in this program, there will be some growing pains to work out at the start, however, this team has the talent and the ability to put a winning season together
GIRLS
With five starters back from last season’s 22-win team, Hesston has to be the favorite to win 3A. Two double-digit scorers are back for the Swathers, including Kendall Brueggen, who averaged over 22 points per game, and Abby Proctor, who averaged more than 10 points per game. Hesston is deep and talented.
Cheney made the state tournament last year, but it lost significant talent from that team. The Cardinals bring back Reagan Black, who averaged nearly nine points per game. The remaining players on Cheney’s roster are relatively inexperienced, but like previous seasons, new players will likely step up.
Every player is back from Haven’s 2024 state tournament, including first team all-league selection Sienna DeFrain and second team all-league selection Avery Brawner. The Wildcats can not only get back to the state tournament, but win games while there.
Halstead brings back two four-year starters in Dalaina Schutte and Kaci Young – both were honorable mention all-league selections. Also back is Piper Schroeder, who averaged 10 points per game before getting injured.
BOYS
A.J. Baptiste, Wichita Collegiate
Dalton Botranger, Haven
Josh Burdick, Cheney
Braxton Creed, Halstead
Reed Friesen, Hesston
Sebastian Hines-Turner, Wichita Collegiate
Kaeden Kasselman, Garden Plain
Carter Peinter, Cheney
Gatlin Rinehart, Haven
Nash Wray, Haven
if we play together, take care of the basketball, and lock teams down on defense.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Curstin Jinkens, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 11-10
2021: 8-13
2022: 4-18
2023: 8-13 2024: 4-18
Key returning players: Ella Lawless, 5-6, sr., F; Taryn Bohannon, 5-8, jr., F
Coach Jinkens says: “We are returning a lot of experienced players, and their knowledge and leadership is going to be key for us to have success. We have some great defensive players and the key there will be to rebound and
create turnovers, which in return will put points on the board for us.”
BELOIT TROJANS
League: NCAA
BOYS
Head Coach: Ryan Eilert, 17th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 21-3
2021: 5-13
2022: 15-7
2023: 17-6
2024: 24-2
Key returning players: Eli Johnson, 6-5, sr., F; Jackson Cheney, 6-1, sr., G; Brody Litton, 6-5, jr., F; Luke Cheney, 6-3, jr., F; Joel Rexroat, 5-10, jr., G
Coach Eilert says: “We return several key players
GIRLS
Avery Brawner, Haven
Kendall Brueggen, Hesston
Sienna DeFrain, Haven
Julia Herrman, Wichita Collegiate
Abby Proctor, Hesston
Reese Stuhlsatz, Garden Plain
Addisen Wills, Halstead
along with a deep group of kids that have been waiting for their turn. We will have good inside presence along with a deep back court that will give us a nice inside/outside combination.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Keith Kresin, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: 15-7
2021: 3-13
2022: 10-13
2023: 4-17
2024: 15-6
Key returning players: Addison Budke, 6-0, sr., C; Cassandra Thompson, 5-8, sr., F; Olivia Wright, 5-9, sr., G
Coach Kresin says: “We should be pretty tough when they figure out a new
coach and system.”
CHAPARRAL ROADRUNNERS League:
CPL
BOYS
Head Coach: Corbin Hostetler, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 9-13
2021: 8-12
2022: 13-9
2023: 11-10
2024: 4-17
Key returning players: Chase Struble, 6-0, sr., G; Conner Hostetler, 5-8, sr., G
Coach Hostetler says: “Last season the team and coaching was young and lacking varsity experience. The experience gained by last season will help guide the team to compete in every game.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Steve Roberts, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 9-13
2021: 13-7
2022: 12-8
2023: 8-13
2024: 12-10
Key returning players: Hallie Stark, 5-7, sr., F; Kaylee Swartz, 5-11, sr., C; Cassidy Misak, 5-3, sr., G
Coach Roberts says: “I am excited for the opportunity to work with this group of young ladies. As the season goes on we will continue to improve both offensively and defensively. I like the experience we have coming back with three starters and four other letterwinners.”
CHENEY CARDINALS League: CPL
BOYS
Head Coach: Linndy Frieden, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 21-3
2021: 20-3
2022: 21-2
2023: 17-6
2024: 20-3
Key returning players: Josh Burdick, 5-10, sr., G; Jase Robertson, 6-2, sr., F; Carter Peintner, 6-3, sr., F
Coach Frieden says: “We will have more size than we have from the past but will need to hit outside shots and will play pressure defense to try to create easy baskets.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Ann Holmes, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 21-3
2021: 25-0
2022: 18-4
2023: 24-4
2024: 18-6
Key returning players: Reagan Black, jr., G; Karsytn Inslee, sr., G; Macey Batt, sr., G; Erika Block, sr., G; Kennedy Frieden, jr., G
Coach Holmes says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
ELLSWORTH BEARCATS League: NCAA
BOYS
Head Coach: Jeff Landon, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 7-14
2021: 10-7
2022: 8-13
2023: 12-9
2024: 19-5
Key returning players: Dax Leiker, 5-11, sr., G; Cooper McGowen, 6-3, jr., F
Coach Landon says: “We return two letterman from last season’s team, who will lead the way for an inexperienced, but hungry group of juniors and sophomores.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Craig Batchman, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 5-18
2021: 4-15
2022: 7-13
2023: 12-10
2024: 11-12
Key returning players: Elyse Haxton, 5-7, jr., F; Lainey Peschka, 5-7, jr., F; Alexis Moore, 5-11, jr., C
Coach Batchman says: “We are excited with the young talent that we will have coming in this year. We look to continue to build up the young talent and make a strong push by the end of the season.”
GARDEN PLAIN OWLS
League: CPL
BOYS
Head Coach: Mark Powell, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 19-5
2021: 12-7
2022: 4-17
2023: 6-16
2024: 9-12
Key returning players: Kaeden Kasselman, 6-3, sr., F; Seth Dugan, 6-0, sr., G; Cooper Scheer, 5-9, sr., G; Eli Eck, 5-10, jr., G; Max McGregor, 6-1, sr., F
Coach Powell says: “We return five lettermen from last season and 70 percent of our offensive scoring. We have four seniors, who have a lot of varsity experience in their career and are coming off a season where they allowed 45 PPG.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Kody Kasselman, 12th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 19-5
2021: 17-6
2022: 19-7
2023: 15-7
2024: 8-14
Key returning players: Reese Stuhlsatz, 5-8, jr., F; Jaden Stuhlsatz, 5-8, sr., F; Ava Mies, 5-6, sr., G; Claire Rolfs, 5-8, sr., F
Coach Kasselman says: “We had a lot of growing pains last season. I’m hoping some of those lesson play dividends this season.”
HALSTEAD DRAGONS
League: CKL
BOYS
Head Coach: Adam Glendening, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 3-18
2021: 1-19
2022: 2-19
2023: 7-14
2024: 7-14
Key returning players: Braxton Creed, 6-0, sr., G; Kohen Corona, 6-0, sr., G; Joey Millspaugh, 6-1, sr., F
Coach Glendending says: “The key to our success this season will be the leadership of our senior class. We have several seniors that have a lot of varsity experience. Two of them will be four-year starters and another a three-year letter winner.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Derek Schutte, 12th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 21-3
2021: 20-42022: 8-14
2023: 13-9
2024: 19-4
Key returning players: Dalania Schutte, 5-9, sr., F; Kaci Young, 5-3, sr., G; Addisen Wells, 5-5, jr., G
Coach Schutte says: “We will continue to play fast and pressure opponents. We return four players that averaged over six ppg from last year’s sub-state runner-up team.”
HAVEN WILDCATS
League: CKL
BOYS
Head Coach: Lonnie Paramore, 17th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 21-3
2021: 17-6
2022: 14-6
2023: 20-2
2024: 16-7
Key returning players: Gatlin Rinehart, 6-1, sr., F; Nash Wray,
5-8, sr., G; Dalton Bontrager, 6-6, sr., C; Detrick Nisly, 5-10, sr., G
Coach Paramore says:
“We graduated one senior from last year’s team so we return a lot of experienced players. We hope to see improvement in each of the returner’s skills. I believe we have a team that could make a deep run in the post season.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Tara Cooprider, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 20-4
2021: 8-14
2022: 9-12
2023: 17-6
2024: 16-8
Key returning players: Sienna DeFrain, 5-9, sr., G; Avery Brawner, 5-11, jr., F; Zaprina Percy, 5-6, sr., G; Sydney Holzrichter, 5-9, sr., F
Coach Cooprider says:
“Our girls were young last year, with half our team being made up of sophomores who had never played varsity. This year they’re more experienced and definitely hungry to make a name for themselves.”
HESSTON SWATHERS
League: CKL
BOYS
Head Coach: Garrett Roth, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 22-2
2021: 23-1
2022: 25-1
2023: 25-1
2024: 18-4
Key returning players: Reed Friesen, 6-6, sr., F; Asher Deutschendorf, 6-0, sr., G; Daniel Lumbreras, 5-10, sr., G
Coach Roth says: “We have a lot of talented and hardworking players who have put in the effort needed to compete on the varsity floor.
With the depth that we have, we aim to be a sound and physical defensive team with the ability to score at a high level.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Matt Richardson, 18th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-7
2021: 15-7
2022: 15-7
2023: 17-6
2024: 22-4
Key returning players: Kendall Brueggen, 5-8, sr., F; Abby Proctor, 5-9, sr., F; Kaycee Mason, 5-9, sr., F; Callie Yoder, 5-3, jr., G
Coach Richardson says: “We hope to develop depth as the season goes on as we look to advance our younger players so they can become comfortable and aggressive assets for us to use throughout the season. Having more depth on our entire team will enable us to practice harder and push ourselves by competing against tough competition during practice as well and not just on game nights.”
KINGMAN EAGLES League: CKL
BOYS
Head Coach: Terry Stucky, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-15
2021: 5-13
2022: 6-15
2023: 11-11
2024: 7-14
Key returning players: Ben Bradshaw, 6-3, sr., F; Kevin Cremins, 6-3, sr., F; Will Macbeth, 6-2, sr., G
Coach Stucky says: “We have a lot of upperclassmen. We will have around seven or eight seniors and juniors and a large freshman class. I haven’t been
able to do a lot with them yet so we will have a lot to learn and evaluate yet.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Neil Freund, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 2-19
2021: 4-15
2022: 9-13
2023: 10-11
2024: 3-18
Key returning players: Morgan Freund, sr., F
Coach Freund says: “We will have a new coach and system. We look forward to implementing these changes and build towards the end of season. Looks like a great group of girls that will allow us to be competitive in every game.”
LYONS LIONS League:
NCAA
BOYS
Head Coach: Sam Schmidt, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-5
2021: 15-5
2022: 7-14
2023: 5-15
2024: 8-14
Key returning players: Ethan Luck, 6-2, sr., G; Xavier Sollis, 6-6, sr., C; Deacon Showalter, 6-2, sr., F; Tegan Link, 6-2, so., F, Paco Espinoza, 6-1, jr., G
Coach Schmidt says: “We’ll be looking to build on the momentum created during the postseason last year. After a strong summer of work, we’ll look for that work to pay dividends on the court this season.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Cody Bowers, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: 8-13
2021: 3-13
2022: 6-14
2023: 7-14
2024: 1-20
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Bowers says: “We have a lot returners this year that had to play last year due to low numbers in our senior class. We should have a more experienced squad that could shock some people.”
MINNEAPOLIS LIONS League: NCAA
BOYS
Head Coach: Ryan Mortimer, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: 14-7
2021: 16-6
2022: 5-16
2023: 3-18
2024: 4-17
Key returning players: Owen Just, 6-0, jr., G; Zach Nelson, 5-9, sr., G; Joseph Woehl, 5-10, sr., G
Coach Mortimer says: “We have a good core of guys that will finally be juniors and seniors. We look forward to the season and challenging our opponents every night.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Bryan Weatherman, 17th seasons
Last five seasons: 2020: 5-16
2021: 10-11
2022: 10-9
2023: 15-6
2024: 16-6
Key returning players: Maci McClure, 5-7, sr., G; Braedee Weatherman, 5-5, sr., G; Josie Schrader, 5-5, sr., G; Raelyn Robinson, 5-4, sr., G
Coach Weatherman says: “We are looking to take the next step after falling to Silver Lake in sub-state. We return all of our perimeter players as well as some talented, young
Jon Wollen, State
bigs. The key will be how fast the young kids adapt to varsity play.”
NICKERSON PANTHERS
League: CKL
BOYS
Head Coach: Parker Bruce, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 9-12
2021: 5-17
2022: 2-19
2023: 2-19
2024: 4-17
Key returning players: Garrett Crossman, 5-11, sr., G; Alex King, 6-3, sr., F; RaShawn Walker, 6-1, sr., G
Coach Bruce says: “We are a very experienced group this year. We return six seniors, and eight total players who have played varsity minutes. We are guard loaded, but have some very serviceable undersized bigs.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Mason Bosworth, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 21-2
2021: 18-4
2022: 23-3
2023: 5-16
2024: 5-16
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Bosworth says: “I want to start off by building a positive and effort-based program here. I also want to achieve a good standing and camaraderie with my student athletes.”
SOUTHEAST OF SALINE TROJANS
League: NCAA
BOYS
Head Coach: Francis Flax, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-7
2021: 14-8
2022: 22-4
2023: 24-2
2024: 15-11
Key returning players: Owen Bailey, 6-1, sr., G; Gannon Jacobson, 6-2, jr., G
Coach Flax says:
“We need to develop our younger players in order for them to complement our two returning starters. Although we do not have a Bonafide post presence, we do have two to three undersized post players that will not only embrace the challenge of being undersized, but willing to scrap and prove they can handle that challenge.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Shauna Smith, 8th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-6
2021: 15-7
2022: 20-4
2023: 19-4
2024: 15-6
Key returning players: Adyson Rohr, 5-7, sr., G; Abigail Peterson, 5-7, sr., G
Coach Smith says: “For the first time in a while we will be very young and will have to replace the majority of our offense. We ‘yet again’ lack size but we will be athletic to be able to get up and down the floor.”
SMOKY VALLEY VIKINGS League: CKL
BOYS
Head Coach: Doug Schneider, 14th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-15
2021: 7-13
2022: 7-13
2023: 11-11
2024: 4-17
Key returning players: Ty Heitschmidt, 6-4, jr., C; Braylon Olson, 5-11, jr., G; Kristian Ryan, 6-5, jr., F
Coach Schneider says: “We graduated five seniors from last season, including three starters, two of which were our leading scorers. The Vikings will have to replace 78 percent of our scoring from last
year’s team.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Jason Drouillard, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-16
2021: 13-8
2022: 13-8
2023: 11-10
2024: 15-7
Key returning players: Nevaeh Spitler 5-9, sr., F; Sophia Fruits 5-3, sr., G,; Katja Blanchat, 6-0, sr., C; Elsie Boughfman, 5-10, sr., G
Coach Drouillard says: “It’s a group that wants to be coached and can be pushed hard. Our strengths include athleticism and speed. What we lack in size we make up for in speed and athleticism.”
WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPARTANS
League: AVCTL D4
BOYS
Head Coach: Mitch Fiegel, 36th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 21-3
2021: 14-6
2022: 15-7
2023: 21-4
2024: 15-7
Key returning players: Sebastian Hines-Turner, 6-5, jr., G; A.J. Batiste, 6-1, so., G; David Chege, 6-6, sr., C; Carter Drumright, 5-7, sr., G; Jaden Parker, 6-2, sr., F
Coach Fiegel says: “We are playing a really tough schedule. We will not play our first 3A opponent until we go into sub-state play, but we will be battle tested and that is way more important than a glossy record.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Dylan Heath, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-15
2021: 9-11
2022: 1-19
2023: 3-18
2024: 3-17
Key returning players: Julia
Herrman, 6-2, sr., F; Laney Conrad, 5-6, sr., G; Langley Overman, 5-9, sr., Tatum Downing, 5-5, sr., G
Coach Heath says: “We have seven girls returning from last year. Most of our girls have plenty of varsity game experience. We are looking forward to seeing the growth of this team.”
WICHITA TRINITY KNIGHTS
League: CPL
BOYS
Head Coach: Nate Awbrey, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 8-13
2021: 18-4
2022: 12-9
2023: 9-13
2024: 11-11
Key returning players: Alessandro Rodriguez, 6-0, sr., G; Kolton Shaffer, 6-0, sr., G; Jesse Eklund, 6-2, so., F
Coach Awbrey says: “We are fortunate to have a talented group of young men in our program. Since taking over, I have been impressed with the strong commitment and buy-in from our players.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Brandon McQueen, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 15-7
2021: 13-7
2022: 11-11
2023: 6-16
2024: 13-10
Key returning players: Makenna Balzer, 5-9, sr., F; Kate Sheperd, 5-5, sr., G; Thasanee Wilmeth, 5-7, sr., G; Madi Cross, 5-9, jr., F; Carissa Linder, 6-2, jr., C
Coach McQueen says: “This season we have a very exciting team. We return some key players, have some underclassmen stepping up who will be ready for the challenge. We will be a very exciting team to watch this season and we can’t wait to get started.”
Friesen Hesston PREP PERFORMANCES OF THE MONTH ! GO
Emily O’Brien Remington
Reed
Remington’s Emily O’Brien has established herself as one of the top players in the area. Following a tough season-ending loss to eventual state champions Wichita Independent, the determined junior and her teammates have been putting in nonstop e ort to come back stronger.
With her skill, dedication, and relentless drive, O’Brien is ready to lead Remington to new heights and make a serious push in the upcoming season. The Broncos wrapped up last season with a solid 14-9 record, fueled by O’Brien’s impressive all-around performance.
As a sophomore, she averaged 12.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.7 steals, and 1.8 assists per game, showcasing her versatility and impact on both ends of the court. Her standout season earned her a spot on the rst-team all-league team, along with honorable mention recognition for all-state.
As an upperclassman, the junior is ready to continue being a leader.
“I always want to lead by example rst, but I de nitely want to be more vocal this year,” O’Brien said. “This is my third year with coach, and I know what he wants from all of us. Coach is our biggest fan, and he will always tell us the truth about how we play.”
O’Brien has a handful of Division two schools that are recruiting her and she plans to make a decision for her future as soon as this spring. But rst, the junior wants to win a state championship.
“We have a bunch of talent coming back and we’ve been putting in a lot of work over the summer and this fall to get ready for the season,” O’Brien said.
Hesston’s Reed Friesen was a rst team all-league and all-state selection last season, while averaging 15 points and eight rebounds per game.
But what stuck out the most is how he needs to improve his leadership for this season’s team.
“I am most excited to be able to lead my team as senior, and see the growth, improvement, and success we will have this winter/spring playing in our gym in front of a great community,” Friesen said. “I want to improve on my ability of leading the team and being more vocal on the court. I was able to grow on that by going through workouts this summer as a senior and having to be one of the main voices on the team. “
The Swathers failed to make it to the state tournament last season and Friesen is vowing to get his team back there again.
“The main goal for us as a team always is to win every game we play and win a state championship,” Friesen said. “So I hope we will have a chance to do that.”
Friesen was able to play some of the best players in the state over the summer, which should pay o during the regular season.
“I played on an AAU team this spring and summer with kids from all around Kansas,” Friesen said. “We traveled to several di erent states and played some great competition which made me better for the upcoming season.”
Chaparral’s Kaylee Swartz
By Matt Browning
Chaparral’s Kaylee Swartz has some specific goals in mind for the 2024 season.
“I am working to break the rebound record and stepping into my leadership role as a senior,” Swartz said. “I am excited to play the last season with my teammates.”
Swartz’s offseason focus was designed to improve her shooting.
“I need to be stepping into my comfort zone and shooting more to increase my shooting percentage,” Swartz said. “I set goals during workouts over the summer to help improve my shooting.”
From a team perspective, Swartz is hopeful that her team can be more successful than last season.
“I’m hope that we will have a winning record and get as far as we can into post season,” Swartz said.
Swartz averaged nearly 10 points and nine rebounds last season for the Roadrunners, where she was an honorable mention all-league selection.
That did not stop her from focusing
even more on her game.
“I went to summer weights and skills development,” Swartz said. “And I also went to team camp and summer league games.”
By Matt Browning
Cheney’s Reagen Black
For two years, Cheney’s Reagen Black has gained valuable experience on the varsity girls basketball team. This season, she hopes she can use that experience towards the betterment of the program.
“This year I’m going to have to step up into a leadership role,” Black said.
Black averaged nine points per game, but now that she is going to be more of a focal point of the Cardinals’ offense, she focused on being a better scorer this season. If she does that, then she thinks Cheney has a shot of getting back to the state tournament.
“Areas that I would like to improve on is shooting behind the arc and my defense,” Black said. “I put in reps behind the arc helping increase my number of made shots. This upcoming season I would like to average 15 points each game. As a team I want to see our team make an appearance at state.”
Not only did Black put in time with her teammates throughout the summer, she also worked out individually, too.
“This offseason I worked with a personal trainer in the spring and summer,” Black
said. “Our team traveled to the Haven Jamboree this summer and had two open gym a week. Our hometown physical trainer Hope Kramer ran a summer weights program and worked on strength training, prevention, and agility.”
By Matt Browning
Halstead’s Addisen Wills
Halstead’s Addisen Wills runs track and cross country, which proves to be beneficial for basketball season.
“I am looking forward to playing a fastpaced game and getting up and down the floor quickly while still maintaining good ball control,” Wills said. “I look forward to increasing pressure against every team we play with great defensive and offensive intensity.”
Wills has often thought of herself as a defensive player, but for this season she wants to expand her offensive game.
“I have worked on this through attending camps, summer basketball, and individual time being spent in the gym and driveway,”
Wills said. “As an upperclassman I plan to step up my leadership skills as well to ensure team growth and chemistry. “
Since she was a little girl, Wills has had a specific goal in mind.
“A goal of mine ever since I was little, is to become the first Halstead women’s basketball team to win a state championship,” Wills said. “I am surrounded with a great group of teammates that work hard and push each other daily to reach our potential.”
Wills’ offseason was a busy one, as she was
doing everything possible to improve her game.
“To help prepare for the season, I have attended multiple college camps, practices with other teams, one-on-one workouts as well as hours in the backyard to work on my game,” Wills said.
By Matt Browning
Haven’s Gatlin Rinehart
The Haven boys basketball team graduated only one senior from last season and for that reason, Gatlin Rinehart is looking forward to what the 2024-2025 season has for the Wildcats.
“The new season brings new challenges, new experiences, and another season of being around people I like,” Rinehart said.
“We had a really good team last year and we only graduated one senior. Obviously we are shooting for state because we have the talent and the coaching to get there.”
Rinehart described himself as a “streaky shooter to say the least” last season. All of his offseason work was to make him a more consistent.
“Some games I would be 0-for-4 and others I would go 7-for-8,” Rinehart said. “Some teammates and I have been in the gym trying to become more consistent shooters. We try to get to school early at least 2 days a week to get up some extra shots.”
With all of the talent back for Haven, Rinehart thinks his team can compete with any team in Class 3A. He also knows his performance will play a big factor, too.
“We’ve come up short two years in a row now
in sub-state, so there is a lot of drive to get to where we want to be,” Rinehart said. “Last year we lacked a leader in the locker room and it hindered us sometimes. Along with becoming a more consistent shooter, being a better leader is at the top of the list.”
Wildcats GO
Garden Plain’s Reese Stuhlsatz
By Matt Browning
Being able to score the basketball has never been a problem for Garden Plain’s Reese Stuhlsatz, but now she is hoping to become a more complete player.
“This season I would love to play better defensively,” Stuhlsatz said. “During off season practices and games I have tried to be more mindful of my defensive game and worked on those skills.”
While Stuhlsatz averaged 11 points per game last season, there are still offensive areas she wants to improve. If she does those things, she’s also hopeful for a bigger team goal, too.
“My individual goals this year are improving my free throw percentage and my perimeter game,” Stuhlsatz said. “A team goal I would love to accomplish this year is to win the league and make it to the state tournament would be awesome as well. One game at a time. I am excited about the upcoming season because we have several returning starters and we also have some new talent from our younger classes.”
Not only did Stuhlsatz work on her game over the summer, but she also spent time trying to become a better athlete.
“During the off seasons I have attended basketball camps and played some summer tournaments,” Stuhlsatz said. “I also think strength training is very important so I spend a lot of time in the weight room during off seasons.”
Garden Plain’s Kaeden Kasselman
By Matt Browni
Standing at 6-4, Garden Plain’s Kaeden Kasselman has never had to carry the burden of being a ball handler or perimeter scorer. But that hasn’t stopped him from trying to improve on those two areas.
“I think the two biggest things I want to improve on are my scoring and my ability to handle the ball,” Kasselman said. “I worked hard on these aspects of my game over the summer and I’m hoping it shows up in season.”
Heading into his final season with the Owls, Kasselman is excited to share it with so many familiar faces.
“I’m very excited for my senior year,” Kasselman said. “I’ve been playing with this group most of my life and I’m looking forward to giving my best in one more season.”
Basketball isn’t the only sport Kasselman plays, so while he plays basketball in the offseason, he uses the other sports he plays to his advantage on the hardwood.
“I competed in summer league and workouts throughout the summer,” Kasselman said. “I’m also a three-sport athlete and stay in shape year round.”
Kasselman averaged ten points and eight rebounds per game last season and he thinks
with an improvement in those numbers that Garden Plain can achieve a significant goal.
“Individually I would like to improve upon all of my stats and continue to make positive plays on the court,” Kasselman said. “As a team we’re shooting for a state tournament appearance and improving upon last year.”
Nickerson’s Garrett Crossman
By Matt Browning
For five years, Nickerson’s Garrett Crossman has played with the same group of players. He is excited for one last ride.
“I’m mostly excited to play my last season with the same teammates I’ve had since seventh grade, and seeing how much we have improved as individuals and as a team,” Crossman said. “I’m also excited to play this season and make sure I leave it all on the court.”
Crossman has been dedicated to improving his game all summer and fall.
“I’ve been getting in the gym as much as I can, going to summer weights, playing summer basketball and joining a fall league playing a game every Sunday for six weeks,” Crossman said. “Staying after school and getting shots up and playing some games with my teammates as well.”
Aside from improving as a player, Crossman also recognized he needed to be a better athlete, too.
“One area I’ve wanted to improve on is just my physical size and build,” Crossman said.
“The summer weights program and staying in the weight room during the school year have helped me improve a lot.”
There are two goals, one individual and one
team, that Crossman would like to achieve.
Some of my goals for myself this season is to earn first team all-league,” Crossman said.
“Some goals as a team is to make sure that we play every game our hardest and go farther than the first round of sub-state.”
By Matt Browning
Cheney’s Josh Burdick
The Cheney boys basketball team lost to Southeast of Saline in the first round of the Class 3A Tournament last season.
That loss has stuck with Josh Burdick and he has one thing in mind for 2025.
“My only goal for the season is to win the state championship,” Burdick said.
While Burdick was a scorer for the Cardinals last season, he is hoping to be just as much of a distributor this season.
“I hope to be a great game manager and passer for our team,” Burdick said.
“During summer basketball camp I tried to focus on getting my teammates great shots.”
Cheney’s team has great chemistry, which is one of the reasons why it has had so much success over the past few seasons.
“I am most excited for the brotherhood of the team,” Burdick said. “I think that we have a great team this year and I’m excited to see what we can do.”
Burdick is also one of the top football players in Class 3A, so being able to get prepared for the season can be a challenge. That hasn’t stopped him,
however, from getting his body ready for the basketball season.
“I have been doing a lot of lifting,” Burdick said. “I am just trying to get stronger and faster.”
By Matt Browning
Hesston’s Abby Proctor
The Hesston Swather girls basketball team brings everyone back from last season, including Abby Proctor, who is bullish on her team’s chances.
“We fell short of winning the state championship by six points last year so we hope to make another trip back,” Proctor said. “I’m looking forward to having competitive practices with our great underclassman group coming up and getting to play with my friends and sister one last time.”
Being a post player, Proctor spent a lot of her time in the offseason trying to be more efficient around the basket.
“One way I want to improve this year is getting more consistent around the basket and finishing all my shots,” Proctor said. “I’ve worked during the offseason during my individual workouts with finishing strong around the basket and getting a ton a reps of shooting.”
While she averaged 11 points and five rebounds per game last season, that didn’t stop her from putting in the extra time during the summer.
“I played in summer basketball tournaments and did camps along with workouts,” Proctor said. “Prior to basketball season I have
volleyball so I’ve been busy with that along with putting time in the weight room. Now that volleyball is over I will be spending time in the gym getting up shots and scrimmaging with my teammates to prepare for basketball season.”
By Matt Browning
Haven’s Avery Brawner
Haven’s Avery Brawner was a second team all-league selection last season, but she understands there are some areas she must improve on this season.
“A few areas I want to improve in are my shooting range and ball handling,” Brawner said. “I think it’s super important to expand my shooting range, because we are going to have to give teams different looks. Being one of the inside threats is great but increasing my range will only make an even bigger threat to others and give some other players good looks on the inside.”
Both with ball handling and shooting, Brawner would spend extra time after her workouts during the summer to work on these fundamentals.
“After summer weights I would have a ball handling workout to do,” Brawner said. “It really helped keep me active in the gym. I also have been working to expand my range in shooting for the past year. I would shoot after my workout so I was forced to shoot while being tired.”
The 2024-2025 Haven team has a chance to be a special one and Brawner is excited about the pieces for the Wildcats.
“We have such a close bond with one another on and off the court,” Brawner said. “Our team dinners are lots of fun. Playing games and conversing is something we do every meal. I’m ready to see what pieces we can add to our team from last year.”
Wichita Collegiate’s Sebastian Hines-Turner
By Matt Browning
Over the past couple of seasons, the Wichita Collegiate boys basketball team has dealt with a plethora of injuries. So now that everyone healthy, the Spartans are primed for a successful season and returning all-state selection Sebastian Hines-Turner is just as excited as anybody else for a whole Collegiate squad.
“The one thing I am most excited for this season is seeing my team healthy,” HinesTurner said. “It’s been a minute since this team has been healthy. I’m excited to see what we got. No more talking.”
Hines-Turner excels at getting downhill to the basket, so this offseason he tried to expand his game to perimeter shooting, as well. Last season, Hines-Turner averaged 18 points and 10 rebounds per game.
“The area I been working the most is shooting the ball better,” Hines-Turner said. “I’ve been going to the gym and would put up at least 400 shots. Just getting the rhythm down to my shot and being consistent and confident with it.”
Seeing improvement each day, whether that is at practice or in games, is important to Hines-Turner so that the Spartans can achieve the ultimate goal.
“Some goals I have for this team is to obviously win on the big stage, which is state,” Hines-Turner said. “But more importantly to get better every practice, every game and every film session. I want to leave the locker room knowing every game and every practice we left everything out there cause it’s ours for the taking.”
COLEMAN FARMS’ ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Conway Springs’ Macie Hartman
By Blake Chadwick
Conway Springs finished last season with a 15-8 record, led by junior Macie Hartman, who made an impressive return after tearing her ACL as a freshman.
“Macie is a hard-working and committed student and athlete for Conway Springs High School,” head coach Andrew Gower said. “She is a high-character person who is very active and involved at CSHS in multiple sports and various student activities and clubs. In the few years I have known her, Macie has displayed an incredible amount of toughness and a competitive spirit that stacks up against the best in the state. I am excited to have the chance to coach her this upcoming basketball season, and I am expecting big results out of her this season.”
Hartman is a part of a good basketball family as her mom was a basketball player at Newman University, and her dad was her basketball coach until she got into middle school. Because of her involvement and love for the game, Hartman has started to see the work pay off, and last year was named to the all-league second-team after averaging close to 10 points a game.
As a junior, Macie Hartman has taken on increasing responsibility as a leader. This season, she’ll have the special
opportunity to play alongside her younger sister and mentor her on the court.
“This year as a leader, I am going to work hard and push my team as well as myself to get better each day,” Hartman said. “As a leader, I am also going to strive to be a positive and encouraging teammate and a role model for my teammates.”
2A TEAMS TO WATCH
BOYS
Conway Springs returns the majority of their roster, having only graduated two seniors last year. However, the team will have a different look this season, as they’ve lost significant height. Instead, they’ll lean on their guards as they aim to build on last year’s solid 15-9 record.
After an impressive 18-4 season, Wichita Classical is gearing up for another deep playoff run. Despite graduating several key seniors, the team remains confident and determined to compete for a Class 2A state championship once again.
In his 30th season as head coach, Lewis Wiebe is prepared to guide Berean Academy
through another standout year. Berean Academy brings back a strong senior core, including Harrison Giger, Randall Thiessen, and Sylas Nord. This season, the team will rely on a well-rounded combination of size, speed, and skill to drive their success.
CLASS 2A PLAYERS TO WATCH
BENNINGTON
BULLDOGS
League: Heart Of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Curtis Pickering
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-15
2021: 6-13
2022: 13-9
2023: 19-5
2024: 19-4
Key returning players:
Kian Wilson, sr., G; Payge
Rodenbeek, sr., G; Brayden Palenske, sr., G; Isaiah Garrett, jr., G;
Coach Pickering says:
“We return a big group of
GIRLS
In his first two seasons at Remington, head coach Ricky Snyder has already guided the team to an impressive 31 wins. This season, the Broncos are poised to be one of the top teams in the state once again, bolstered by the return of seniors Annie Entz and Elena Bowling, along with standout junior Emily O’Brien. O’Brien led the team last year, averaging 12 points and seven rebounds per game, earning her a spot on the all-league team.
After capturing the state championship in 2023, Berean Academy is eager for another title run despite graduating a significant group of seniors. This season, the team will be anchored by seniors Taylor Balzer and Ellie Beverlin, along with junior Fionna Morgan, who earned second-team all-league honors last year.
Following an impressive 17-5 season last year, Wichita Central Christian is set to join the Heart of America League this season. The team will be guided by first-year head coach Laura Jordan and led by seniors Ashlynn Johns and Adriana Tucker, along with juniors Laila Hernandez and Avery Piper as they look to compete for a league championship.
BOYS
Corey Crumrine, Sedgwick
Drew Dechant, Hutchinson Trinity
Harrison Giger, Berean Academy
Eli Howard, Conway Springs
Max Ryan, Hutchinson Trinity
seniors that have enjoyed some success within the program for the past few years. This group will look to take advantage of having a really good balance of guards and posts. Once again we will look to outwork our opponents and try to place as fast as we can to utilize our athleticism.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: April Saskowski, 1st season
2020: 16-8
2021: 8-8
2022: 12-10
2023: 17-6
2024: 12-11
Key returning players: Rori
GIRLS
Macie Hartman, Conway Springs
Lilly Hoffman, Udall
Kayl Knapp, Udall
Tinely Lovesee, Bluestem
Emily O’Brien, Remington
Fionna Morgan, Berean Academy
Alex Suter-Tan, Hutchinson Trinity Nevi Wilkey, Wichita Classical
Miles, sr., G; Jordan Bartlett, jr., G; Taleigh Watson, jr., G;
Coach Saskowski says: “This year we are reloading off a successful season last year. If our girls continue to work hard and believe in the process, we have the potential to have another successful season. Our focus is reloading, challenging each other to be our best, build on our strengths and grow together.”
BEREAN ACADEMY WARRIORS League: Heart Of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Lewis Wiebe, 30th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 24-1
2021: 19-3
2022: 13-9
2023: 8-13
2024: 9-12
Key returning players: Harrison Giger, 6-2, sr., G; Randall Thiessen, 6-2, sr., F; Sylas Nord,
Coach Wiebe says: “We return a big group of seniors that have enjoyed some success within the program for the past few years. This group will look to take advantage of having a really good balance of guards and posts. Once again we will look to outwork our opponents and try to place as
fast as we can to utilize our athleticism.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Kristin Wiebe, 20th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 24-1
2021: 19-3
2022: 13-9
2023: 8-13
2024: 16-6
Key returning players: Fionna Morgan. Jr., F; Taylor Balzer, sr., G; Ellie Beverlin, sr., G;
Coach Wiebe says:
“We lost several key seniors and will be looking for younger players to step in and fill positions as well as everyone to step up and take their play up a notch. We hope to improve as the season moves along and be a cohesive unit by the end of the season.”
BLUESTEM LIONS
League: Tri-Valley
BOYS
Head Coach: Russ Herman, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 7-14
2021: 6-14
2022: 8-10
2023: 0-22
2024: 4-16
Last five seasons:
2020: 5-16
2021: 9-11
2022: 17-5
2023: 19-6
2024: 12-10
Key returning players: Tinley Lovesee, sr., G; Emmary Eagleson, sr., G; Jewell Carleton, sr., F;
Coach Hamblin says:
“We have two senior guards, Tinley Lovesee 12.6 pts and Emmory Eagleson 5.6 pts returning. Chemistry with new starters will be a key for us. We don’t have much depth, so developing younger players will also be a key for us.”
CONWAY SPRINGS CARDINALS
League: Central Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Paul Lange, 10th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-14
2021: 5-15
2022: 14-6
2023: 4-19
2024: 15-9
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Coach Mercer says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
DOUGLASS BULLDOGS
League: Central Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Matthew Lawson, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 2-19
2021: 4-15
2022: 5-16
2023: 8-13
2024: 15-9
Key returning players: Jace Pichler sr., F; Jaxon Brewer, jr., F; Wyatt Moore, so., G;
Coach Lawson says:
replacing four starters from last year’s team. The Douglass girls are excited to be involved in different roles on the court this season. New year and new players.”
ELL-SALINE CARDINALS
League: Heart of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Marty Wendel, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 0-21
2021: 0-20
2022: 3-19
2A
Key returning players: Eli Howard, sr., G; Grant Fisher, sr., G; Eli Benge, jr., G; Logan Osner, jr., G;
Coach Lange says:
Key returning players: Korbin Hebb, sr., G; Grady Rider, sr., G;
Coach Herman says:
“We will be replacing a large portion of our offensive firepower from last year’s team, specifically when it comes to an inside presence and shot creation from the perimeter.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Max Hamblin, 4th season
“We only lost two guys from last year’s squad, but we will have a different look this year as we don’t replace the size we lost.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Sheri Mercer, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 12-9
2021: 4-17
2022: 8-13
2023: 12-9
2024: 12-10
“Douglass boys are bringing back seven players that contributed in a varsity game last season. Douglass has a strong young core of sophomores and juniors, along with some freshman who will contribute in a varsity game. The Douglass boys are looking forward to the upcoming season and hope to get into the double digit win column.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Matthew Lawson, 5th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 1-21
2021: 5-13
2022: 7-14
2023: 5-16
2024: 6-15
Key returning players: Brooke Thill, sr., G; Jolie Suntheimer, sr., G; Gentry Bergsten, jr., G;
Coach Lawson says: “The Douglass girls team went 6-15 last season. They are
2023: 13-9
2024: 18-5
Key returning players: Brogan Rowley, sr., G;
Coach Wendel says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
GIRLS
Head Coach: Brandi Schneider, 4th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 4-18
2021: 6-14
2022: 14-6
2023: 9-12
2024: 11-10
Key returning players: Taelor Hardetsy, sr., G; Kaitlyn Betzner, sr., G; Jocelyn Taylor, jr., C;
Coach Schneider says: “We will have a different look as we rebuild after having a multitude of long-standing varsity players graduate. This summer demonstrated that the girls are hungry to assume varsity jerseys and fill spots left by the twins, Ally and Avery Richard and Schneider in the frontcourt. I anticipate a battle for the remaining positions and look forward to the growth both as individuals and as a team.”
2A TEAMS TO WATCH
HILLSBORO TROJANS
League: Central Kansas
BOYS
Head Coach: Kyle Kroeker, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 15-9
2021: 23-3
2022: 25-1
2023: 9-12
2024: 13-9
Key returning players: Lincoln Wichert, 5-11, sr., G; Seth Driggers, 6-2, sr., G; Noah Beavers, 6-4, sr., F; Nash Dickinson, 6-2, sr., G;
Coach Kroeker says:
“This year we look forward to building on the experience and improvement made last season. We continue to focus on defensive toughness. We have many core pieces coming back with people stepping into their new roles. We must manufacture easy buckets in transition and in the half court.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Micah Ratzlaff, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-9
2021: 19-4
2022: 13-9
2023: 21-6
2024: 22-2
Key returning players: Amyah Werth, 5-5, so., G; Kingsley Ratzlaff, 5-10, jr., F;
Coach Ratzlaff says:
“We lost four seniors and three starters from last year’s team who had a great season with an overall record of 22-2, 8-1 in CKL play and lost first round at state by three to Wichita Independent who won state. This year, we will have a small group, but I believe will have a chance
to compete every night and get better every day. It all starts with our point guard play from Sophomore Amyah Werth who is coming off a fantastic freshman year\
HUTCHINSON TRINITY CELTICS
League: Heart of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Anthony White, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-8
2021: 15-8
2022: 3-18
2023: 6-15
2024: 10-13
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Coach White says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
GIRLS
Head Coach: Shannon Obermite, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 13-10
2021: 9-12
2022: 4-17
2023: 2-19
2024: 5-17
Key returning players: Gillian Schletzbaum, sr., G; Azul Maciel, jr., F; Alex Suter-Tan, so., G;
Coach Obermite says:
“We are a young team, with the majority of the team consisting of underclassmen. We are looking to gain experience, get better as the season goes along, come out and compete and win some games this season. Short on numbers, but high on work ethic, we have the talent to battle to win games this season from the beginning to the end.”
INMAN TEUTONS
League: Heart of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Cody Liebelt, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 13-8
2021: 9-12
2022: 18-4
2023: 18-4
2024: 7-14
Key returning players: Carston Siedl, so., G; Malachi Brunk, so., G; Tyler Martisko, jr., G;
Coach Liebelt says:
“Having only three seniors, we will be a very young team overall. Our kids had a great summer and worked very hard in the weight room. The kids are very coachable and want to improve. We have to begin to establish the culture and identity we want.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Matt Harris, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-7
2021: 8-12
2022: 6-15
2023: 10-12
2024: 15-7
Key returning players: Suttyn Harris, jr., G; Morgan Froese, jr., F; Kenna Woods, jr., F;
Coach Harris says: “Our goal is to win the league and improve during the season in hopes of making a run late in the season. We want to optimize everyone’s individual talent to make us the best possible team. We want to be a balanced team that plays fast.”
MARION WARRIORS
League: Heart of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Kevin Dasenbrock, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 3-19
2021: 5-15
2022: 4-17
2023: 3-18
2024: 8-13
Key returning players: Luke Wessel, sr., G; Carson Krause, jr., G; Kadon Mercer, jr., F; Jackson Howard, jr., G
Coach Dasenbrock says: “We will be young but will play hard. The guys had a great summer learning a new program and culture. They bought in and competed well. Our motto this season is ‘relentless pressure, unstoppable pace.’ We are going to play fast but controlled and have a lot of fun. I am excited to be here in Marion to coach these young men.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Jason Hett, 6th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 3-18
2021: 1-19
2022: 4-17
2023: 6-15
2024: 8-13
Key returning players: Kenna Wesner, sr., F; Taryn Kraus, sr., F; Addison Cooper, sr., G; Erin Regnier, sr., G;
Coach Hett says: “We are going to lean on our senior class for leadership and to continue to build our program. We will look to be competitive in all our games and play with great effort and attitude.”
MOUNDRIDGE
League: Heart of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Dustan Kanitz, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 9-12
2021: 14-7
2022: 19-4
2023: 24-4
2024: 23-3
Key returning players: Bear Moddelmog, sr., G; Henry Hecox, sr., F; Kaizer Kanitz, jr., G;
Coach Kanitz says:
“The Wildcats return four starters from the 2A state championship team. Our 24-25 roster will have added depth. Our team’s size and quickness have the potential to create matchup problems for our opponents. Our personnel allows us the ability to score several different ways.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Kaleigh Huxman, 4th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-11
2021: 18-6
2022: 11-9
2023: 10-11
2024: 19-4
Key returning players: Addysen Patrick, jr., G;
Coach Huxman says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
REMINGTON BRONCOS
League: Heart of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Billy Graf, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 5-16
2021: 4-13
2022: 12-9
2023: 13-8
2024: 13-10
Key returning players: Drew Klaassen, sr., F; Kole Klaassen, sr., F; Kendall Reimer, sr., F; Isaac Jury, sr., G;
Coach Graf says:
“This is my first season at Remington. We lost our leading scorer, but return four of five starters and the majority of the minutes from last season. We have an experienced and physically strong class of seniors and some talented underclassmen who will play a lot of varsity minutes this season. We hope to be hard-nosed defensively and disciplined on offense.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Ricky Snyder, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 3-17
2021: 3-14
2022: 15-8
2023: 17-6
2024: 14-9
Key returning players: Annie Entz, sr., F; Elena Bowling, sr., G; Emily O’Brien, jr., F;
Coach Snyder says:
“We are coming off a 14-9 season last year with a substate runner-up finish against eventual state champion, Wichita Independent. We suffered several major injuries which forced some younger players to gain some valuable varsity experience. Hopefully, that will pay off this year
REPUBLIC COUNTY BUFFALOES League: NCAA
BOYS
Head Coach: Alan Sheets, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 5-16
2021: 4-13
2022: 12-9
2023: 13-8
2024: 1-20
Key returning players: Connor Martin, jr., G; Aden Morris, jr., G; Kaden Novak, sr., G;
Coach Sheets says: “The Buffs were 1-20 last year. We return four starters and four additional lettermen from last year. Practices will be competitive and spirited as the Buffs prepare to make as much noise as possible by the end of the season. Republic County plays in the rugged NCAA league. The strong schedule will prepare us for the end of the season.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Allie Fredrick, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 12-11
2021: 3-16
2022: 0-21
2023: 0-21
2024: 0-21
Key returning players: Avery Stindt, sr., G;
Coach Frederick says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
SACRED HEART KNIGHTS
League: NCAA
BOYS
Head Coach: Brian Gormley, 13th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 19-4
2021: 15-4
2022: 16-6
2023: 13-10
2024: 1-20
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Coach Gormley says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
GIRLS
Head Coach: Carl Hines, 4th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 15-8
2021: 11-8
2022: 11-10
2023: 13-10
2024: 14-8
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Coach Hines says: “We are young this year with only two seniors on the roster. We are hoping to play at a faster pace to utilize our strengths. This year will be a test, as they all are. I am excited for this group to get started.”
SEDGWICK CARDINALS League: Heart of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Gary Squires, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-11
2021: 11-9
2022: 14-8
2023: 6-16
2024: 5-16
Key returning players: Micah Hansen, sr., G; Izaiah Chapman, sr., G; Braydn Sell, sr., F;
Coach Squires says: “I will be entering my first year coaching here at Sedgwick high School. Since taking over the basketball job back in June, we have
conducted our summer workouts. We had a small, but a very successful turnout with those attending camp. We will have no returning starters, and a young team with a lot of new faces.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Carl Hines, 4th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 15-8
2021: 11-8
2022: 11-10
2023: 13-10
2024: 14-8
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Coach Hines says:
“We are young this year with only two seniors on the roster. We are hoping to play at a faster pace to utilize our strengths. This year will be a test, as they all are. I am excited for this group to get started.”
SOLOMON
GORILLAS League: Wheat State
BOYS
Head Coach: Kyler Stein, 4th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 8-13
2021: 17-6
2022: 17-9
2023: 11-10
2024: 15-7
Key returning players: Carlos Duran, jr, G; Logan Hammersmith, sr., G; Calvin Mattison, so., F;
Coach Stein says:
“Our goal is to improve daily and focus on the little things. If we take care of our business and take pride in all the small
details the bigger things like league championships and state tournament berths will take care of themselves. We are focused on the process of every single Day.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Luke Riordan, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 2-19
2021: 5-15
2022: 2-16
2023: 4-17
2024: 4-17
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Coach Riordan says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
STERLING BLACK BEARS League: Heart of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Derek Schneider, 16th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 20-4
2021: 18-6
2022: 18-6
2023: 17-6
2024: 22-4
Key returning players: Boston Ekart, jr., F; Zane Farney, jr., G; Blake Smith, jr., G;
Coach Schneider says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
GIRLS
Head Coach: Kylah Hayes, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 20-3
2021: 25-1
2022: 26-0
2023: 4-17
2024: 6-15
2A TEAMS TO WATCH
Key returning players: Caitlin Oden, sr., F; Shklar Farney, sr., G; Carli Wilkey, sr., G;
Coach Hayes says: “I am excited for this upcoming season as it’s going to be another season of growth for our program. Coming off of 6 wins from last year, our team is growing in leadership and experience and I’m hoping that shows in our record. One specific area that we are looking to improve as a team in our physicality and aggressiveness. Overall, the best part of about coaching this team is getting to be around the girls each day.”
WICHITA CENTRAL CHRISTIAN LIONS League: Heart of
America
BOYS
Head Coach: Tyler Busenitz, 4th season
Last five seasons: 2020: n/a 2021: n/a 2022: 1-8
2023: 1-12 2024: 4-10
Key returning players: Hudson Clark, sr., F; Cody Bixenman, sr., G; Ben Patrick, jr., F;
Coach Busenitz says: “CCA returns almost all of their team from last season. With the returning players, CCA is hopeful to use this as they jump into 2A and the HOA league for the first time.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Laura Jordan, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: n/a 2021: n/a 2022: 3-7
2023: 4-11
2024: 17-5
Key returning players: Ashlynn Johns, sr., G; Adriana Tucker, sr., F; Avery Piper, jr., G;
Coach Jordan says: “This will be my first year coaching our girls’ basketball program. We are joining the Heart of America League which will be tough, but we are excited for the level of play we will see and how it will help build our program.”
WICHITA CLASSICAL SAINTS League:
Heart of America
BOYS
Head Coach: Tim Dolloff, 5th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 10-11
2021: 11-9
2022: 14-8
2023: 6-16
2024: 18-4
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Coach Dolloff says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
GIRLS
Head Coach: Justin Kenas, 5th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 3-17
2021: 0-19
2022: 5-16
2023: 8-15
2024: 11-11
Key returning players: Nevi Wilkey, sr., G; Maggie Neill, jr., G; Addison Yost, sr., G;
Coach Kenas says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Conway Springs’ Eli Howard
By Blake Chadwick
Conway Springs’ senior guard, Eli Howard has been a varsity starter since his sophomore year and was a part of the first team to make the state tournament in 12 years last season.
“Eli has really helped us stretch the floor and made it easier for those around him to be able to score in addition to getting his own,” head coach Paul Lange said. “This past summer, he was the driving force behind getting our guys organized for summer ball and making sure they got to the games. Additionally, he’s a three sport athlete plus he finds time to coach our youth in the local rec league. The amount of personal growth I’ve seen in Eli has been as great as any player I’ve coached.”
Howard is primed for a great senior season, and that has all started thanks to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
The senior averaged 11 points per game, while shooting 42.7 percent from the field and averaging 3.3 rebounds per game, 2.6 assists a game, and 2.1
steals a game.
“The kid is tough,” Lange said. “It seems as if he’s always banged up, but he never complains. He works hard for his body to be as healed as it can be and he’s always ready for the next play.”
Bluestem’s Tinley Lovesee
By Blake Chadwick
After a 12-10 finish, the Bluestem Lions will be looking forward to a lot better season this year.
The Lions bring back senior Tinley Lovesee, who will be looking to build off of her junior year where she averaged 15 points per game and eight rebounds while being named to the all-league, second team and all-league academic team.
The senior has dealt with a few injuries in her career, so a healthy last season is on her mind as well as winning.
“My personal goals for this basketball season are hitting my 1000 points and being injury free,” Lovesee said. “For the team goal I hope we work as a team well because it is a whole different team from last year.”
Lovesee, is the youngest of three with both of her sisters Torrance and Taytum playing volleyball at UTEP and Fort Hays State, respectively.
“Being in an athletic family is a lot of fun,” Lovesee said. “Anytime we do
some sort of physical activity, or games it gets very competitive, so I do not feel pressure because we are all supportive of each other, although we are all athletic, we all have different strengths.”
Berean Academy’s Fionna Morgan
By Blake Chadwick
Fionna Morgan of Berean Academy was a promising rising star for the Warriors last season until a knee injury cut her season short.
Ever since, the junior has been working relentlessly to get back.
“I have been focusing on improving my strength and basketball skills so that I can start this new season better off than when I had to end last year’s,” Morgan said. “My personal goal this year is to continue working to be the best player and teammate I can be and to help my team play to the best of our potential.”
The Warriors clinched the state championship in 2023 with an impressive 25-1 record. After finishing last season at 16-6, the team is determined to make their way back to the top.
However, Morgan knows that the road to a state championship starts every day, not just in March.
“As a team leader this season, I am going to lead by example, encourage my team, and be everyone’s biggest ‘hype man,’” Morgan said. “But I am also going to hold my team accountable for our team goals
and their personal goals because I want them to do the same for me. I will respect our other team leaders because to be respected as a leader, you have to respect your teammates, coaches, and other team leaders.”
By Blake Chadwick
Sedgwick’s Gary Squires
Two-time Wichita City League coach of the year, Gary Squires, will be back on the sidelines this year. This time it will be for the Sedgwick Cardinals.
Squires has an extensive 34-year coaching career, with 26 years of experience at various institutions. He began as a graduate assistant at Newman University, where he previously played, taking charge of scouting, recruiting, and coaching the JV team. He then moved on to coach at his alma mater, Bishop Carroll, followed by positions at KC Turner, Kapaun Mt. Carmel, Iola, Neosho Community College, and Wichita North. At Wichita North, he coached Conner Frankamp, the highestscoring player in Kansas high school history.
Biddy basketball through the Salvation Army when he was seven years old was where Squires found his first love. From there he played at Bishop Carroll, and then at Newman University where he learned that coaching was in his blood.
With all of the experience in the world and a new group of guys, Squires is ready for the new challenge.
“With it being my first year and seeing the guys this summer, the sky is the limit for
these men and they have great attitudes and are willing to get better every day,” Squires said. “There are going to be some highs and lows with this new system, but as the season continues, I know we will get better as they learn their roles.”
1A TEAMS TO WATCH
BOYS
Cunningham, who comes off a DII 1A state title and a record of 22-3, is looking to go back-to-back. Cunningham is led by returning senior guards Luke Albers and Will Wegerer. Head coach Bob Stackhouse returns for his seventh year as head coach to hopefully coach his team to another state championship title.
Losing in the sub-state semifinals, Oxford is hoping that the leadership of junior Kellen Green and senior Cordell Jordan will help them make it to state. Head coach Kyle Green believes that they can make another decent run in the offseason if they can put all their talents together quickly and efficiently.
After qualifying for the state tournament, Central-Burden hopes to ride that wave and use its three returning starters to get back and make a run for the state title. Central-Burden is led by senior Ethan Boucher, who last year scored eight points a game with four rebounds as well. Boucher is joined by junior James Braun who scored 10 points per game.
Hoping to utilize their length this season and minimize mistakes, Norwich is led by junior Jayden Benge, who last year scored nine points per game is looking to be a state contender. Head coach Nicholas Kyle believes that the Eagles’ biggest weakness is shooting but is impressed with the improvement over the summer to fix that.
GIRLS
Coming off a 20-2 season last year, Norwich is looking to make an impressive run in state this year. Last year Norwich fell in the first round to Centralia. Head coach Mike Klaver, entering his 16th season as head coach, believes Norwhich has a chance to make it back to state and go further than the first round. South Haven returns their three best scorers in hopes of making it back to state. Head coach Mike Heater wants South Haven to rely on a fast-paced style, balanced scoring, and pressure defense to have success this season. South Haven’s returners consist of senior Aubrey Pond, and juniors Kelly Theurer and Adele Helsel.
Looking to improve their 17-5 record last season, Hutchinson Central Christian returns three starters who were a majority of their scoring as well. The Lady Cougars are led by sophomore Avery Kauffman, who scored 11 points per game. Kauffman is also joined by senior Belle Barnett, who scored nine points per game and junior Jessa Losew, who scored 11 points per game as well.
Le by four-year starter Zoie Redgate, Attica is looking to play fast paced and scrappy. Redgate, one of Attica’s three returning starters from last year, averaged 14.9 points per game, five rebounds and five steals. Redgate is joined by junior Cady Hemphill who averaged 13.4 points per game and senior Baylee Ricke who averaged 7.5 rebounds per game.
CLASS 1A PLAYERS TO WATCH
BOYS
Luke Albers, Cunningham
Brody Froese, Hutchinson Central Christian
Kellen Green, Oxford
Piercen Huff, Hutchinson Central Christian
Jake Hunter, Flinthills
Cordell Jordan, Oxford
Carter Swingle, Attica
Will Wegerer, Cunningham
GIRLS
Belle Barnett, Hutchinson Central Christian
Paige Corter, Flinthills
Zoe Davidson, Cedar Vale-Dexter
Yasmin Gordea, Oxford
Lilly Hoffman, Udall
Jessa Losew, Hutchinson Central Christian
Ellie McGuire, Cunningham
Aubrey Pond, South Haven
Zoie Redgate, Attica
Ella Risley, Caldwell
Kaylea Robinson, Pretty Prairie
Alex Scribner, Flinthills
Emily Scribner, Flinthills
Kelly Theurer, South Haven
CLASS 1A
ARGONIA
RED RAIDERS
League: SCBL
BOYS
Head Coach: Jake Callaway, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 0-21
2021: 2-15
2022: 0-14
2023: 3-17
2024: 7-15
Key returning players: Carson Vineyard, 5-8, jr., G; Jackson Kollmeyer, 6-8, jr., G; Maddex Hemberger, 5-9, so., G
Coach Callaway says: “This season we have two juniors and one sophomore returning. Everyone else is new.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Dixie Brewster, 19th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 18-6
2021: 16-5
2022: 9-11
2023: 8-12
2024: 12-10
Key returning players: Tori Morrison, 5-7, jr., F; Autumn Coleman, 5-8, jr., G; Kara Jones, 5-5, jr., G
Coach Brewster says:
“The potential we have is very good and we will need to compete at a heightened level to exceed our outcomes of the past. This year can be a turning point of our .500 seasons the past two years for our juniors.”
ATTICA BULLDOGS
League: Heart of the Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Monte Miller, 4th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-5
2021: 15-6
2022: 15-7
2023: 10-12
2024: 5-16
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Miller says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
GIRLS
Head Coach: Scotty McCartney, 6th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 12-12
2021: 13-8
2022: 16-6
2023: 17-5
2024: 14-8
Key returning players: Zoie Redgate, 5-5, sr., PG; Baylee Ricke, 5-8, sr., PF; Cady Hemphill, 5-6, jr., G
Coach McCartney says: “We are returning three starters from last year. Our depth is not very deep, but we should be a fast paced team that will be scrappy.”
BELIOT ST. JOHN’S TROJANS
League: Northern Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Lance Bergmann, 16th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 20-6
2021: 12-8
2022: 12-10
2023: 19-6
2024: N/A
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Bergmann says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
GIRLS
Head Coach: Leah Bergmann, 6th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-6
2021: 18-2
2022: 16-7
2023: 20-6
2024: 15-6
Key returning players: Carlie Brummer, 5-9, sr., G; Lynelle Gengler, 5-8, jr., F; Ava Brummer, 5-4, so., G
Coach Bergmann says: “I’m really excited for this upcoming year with this team. We will have a lot of athleticism on the court and coming off the bench. We are returning three starters and several players who played significant minutes from last year’s team.”
CALDWELL BLUEJAYS
League: SCBL
BOYS
Head Coach: Jalen Risley, 3rd season
Last five seasons: 2020: 15-7
2021: 8-7
2022: 13-7
2023: 12-10
2024: 9-12
Key returning players: Mak Blosser, 5-10, so., G; Layten Caruthers, 6-2, sr., G;
Coach Risley says: “We will be a very young and inexperienced team this season with only one senior. I am looking forward to seeing the growth these guys have from start to finish.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Shonda Nolan, 2nd season
Last five seasons: 2020: 13-12
2021: 0-17
2022: 0-21
2023: 1-20
2024: 2-16
Key returning players: Maddy Doyle, 5-9, sr., G; Ella Risley, 5-6, jr., G; Emma Rohrbaugh, 5-5, jr., G
Coach Nolan says: “The Lady Jays made great progress last season. This season our goals are to be competitive every game and turn the program back to winning ways.”
CANTON-GALVA EAGLES
League: Wheat State
BOYS
Head Coach: Larry O’Connor, 2nd season
Last five seasons: 2020: 10-12
2021: 10-9
2022: 11-10
2023: 15-8
2024: 11-12
Key returning players: Kustom Schamp, 5-11, so., PG; Ethan Brozek, 5-10, so., PG/SG;
Coach O’Connor says: “We will be very athletic, with good scorers. We just need to keep developing our young guys. We are looking to make another run to state.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: David Ediger, 1st season
Last five seasons: 2020: 9-13
2021: 5-19
2022: 3-17
2023: 15-9
2024: 14-8
Key returning players: Trinity Espinoza, 5-7, jr., G; Rae Hawkinson, 5-7, sr., F; Malia
Hoppes, 5-5, so., G
Coach Ediger says:
“Will be low on numbers, but the nine we have will be a nice team. Lost some girls due to transfers. This team has some good experience and a good group of juniors and one returning senior.”
CEDAR VALE/DEXTER SPARTANS
League: SCBL
BOYS
Head Coach: KB Criss, 9th season
Last five seasons: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Criss says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
GIRLS
Head Coach: Lance Jeffers, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 4-15
2021: 3-13
2022: N/A
2023: N/A
2024: 9-13
Key returning players: Zoe Davidson, 5-8, so., G; Gracie Webb, 5-6, jr., F; Edee Boatman, 5-7, sr., G
Coach Jeffers says:
“We are hoping to be a team that plays up tempo on both ends of the floor. We have an athletic group of girls that are capable of being a strong defensive team. We have several girls returning with experience, a key will be to continue to develop those athletes as well as develop several that can provide us with depth.”
CENTRAL BURDEN RAIDERS
League: SCBL
BOYS
Head Coach: Ben Ponce, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 4-18
2021: 6-15
2022: 4-17
2023: 14-12
2024: 19-5
Key returning players: Ethan Boucher, 6-3, sr., F; Broc Wilson, 6-1, sr., F; Austin Johnson, 5-8, sr., G
Coach Ponce says: “We are looking to continue our success as we qualified for the state tournament last season. We lost a lot of production but do return three starters and have some guys that are ready to step into bigger roles.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Ben Ponce, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 0-21
2021: 6-16
2022: 7-14
2023: 7-14
2024: 5-17
Key returning players: Paislee Hartman, 5-6, sr., G; Jessica Bell, 5-10, jr., C; Gracelea Weigle, 5-5, so., G; Jessilyn Parsons, 5-5, so., F
Coach Ponce says: “We return four players that saw significant playing time at the varsity level last season and will mix in a strong group of freshmen that will be asked to contribute.”
CLIFTON-CLYDE EAGLES
League: Twin Valley
BOYS
Head Coach: Josh Skoncy, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-9
2021: 19-3
2022: 15-7
2023: 20-3
2024: 19-4
Key returning players: Jack Skoncy, 6-4, sr., G; Oliver Nobert, 5-10, sr., F; Kye Chase, 6-6, sr., C
Coach Skoncy says: “Player development will be important for the team this season. We have two returning starters but playing time after that left with graduation. The Eagles have a big junior class with lots of potential, but experience will be our handcuff.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Kieran Wurtz, 12th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 19-6
2021: 12-11
2022: 15-9
2023: 18-5
2024: 17-6
Key returning players: Sevy Wurtz, 5-6, jr., G; Mylee Hammond, 5-6, sr., G; Lillian Steinbrock, 5-4, sr., G
Coach Wurtz says: “Our team will once again play an up tempo style of game. We will need to run, press and fast break to score in the open court. We will not want to get bogged down in a slow, half-court game if we don’t have to.”
CUNNINGHAM WILDCATS
League: Heart of the Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Bob Stackhouse, 7th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 3-18
2021: 6-16
2022: 13-9
2023: 14-9
2024: 21-3
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Stackhouse says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE GIRLS
Head Coach: Kayla Walters, 2nd season
Last five seasons: 2020: 23-2
2021: 22-3
2022: 2-20
2023: 4-16
2024: 7-14
Key returning players: Ellie McGuire, 5-8, sr., G; Ava Bock, 5-9, sr., F; Andi Young, 5-8, fr., F
Coach Walters says: “We are returning a lot of young talent, mixed with some veteran knowledge. I am looking forward to another year of growth together as a unit. We took great strides last year, and am looking forward to connecting a few more dots with this group this year.”
ELYRIA CHRISTIAN
EAGLES League: Wheat State
BOYS
Head Coach: Zach Goodrich, 9th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 15-8
2021: 14-11
2022: 14-7
2023: 19-5
2024: 20-2
Key returning players: Ty
Romero, 6-5, sr., G; Andrew Huxman, 6-1, sr., SF; Landon Schneider, 6-2, sr., PF
Coach Goodrich says: “This group of seniors have had some experiences that I believe will play a pivotal role in our upcoming season. We continue to improve at the little details and this season should be the one where it all comes together.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Greg Fields, 12th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 11-12
2021: 16-6
2022: 14-8
2023: 16-5
2024: 14-8
Key returning players: Addison Swenson, 5-6, sr., G; Grace Prescott, 5-2, jr., G; Joy Pyle, 5-11, so., F
Coach Fields says: “I am looking forward to another year with this group of girls who love to compete. It looks like another year with small numbers, so every girl will have an opportunity to make an impact on the team in practice and in games.”
FAIRFIELD FALCONS
League: Heart of the Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Alex Pankratz, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 5-16
2021: 9-11
2022: 6-14
2023: 8-13
2024: 5-15
Key returning players: Connor Fowler, 5-10, sr., G; Chase Combs, 6-0, jr., F; Brodia Snodgrass, 5-6, jr., G
Coach Pankratz says: “We were a young team last year, and will still be a relatively young team this year. We expect many of our sophomores and incoming freshmen to push our older players, and there could be a lot of competition for minutes as we see who fits best into our new schemes.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Noell Hamm, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 8-14
2021: 8-12
2022: 10-11
2023: 15-6
2024: 7-14
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Pankratz says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
FLINTHILLS MUSTANGS League: SCBL
BOYS
Head Coach: Michael Hunter, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-16
2021: 8-13
2022: 6-15
2023: 9-13
2024: 6-15
Key returning players: Jake Hunter, 5-10, jr., PG; Charles Farris, 6-1, so., G; Mason Randall, 6-3, jr., F
Coach Hunter says: “I really like the way this team competed in the offseason. The coaches noticed a number of players improving tremendously. The 2023-24 team started two freshmen, two sophomores, and one senior.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Daniel Scribner
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-12
2021: 13-12
2022: 13-8
2023: 13-9
2024: 18-5
Key returning players: Paige Corter, 5-8, sr., F; Emily Scribner, 5-3, sr., G; Alex Scibner, 5-3, jr., G
Coach Scribner says: “Flinthills returns a solid core. If we can develop some depth and continue to improve on offense, we could be pretty good.”
GOESSEL BLUEBIRDS
League: Wheat State
BOYS
Head Coach: Curtis Guhr, 12th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 15-9
2021: 14-7
2022: 15-7
2023: 11-11
2024: 10-11
Key returning players: Koy Smith, jr., G; Jack Nickel, jr., G
Coach Guhr says:
“I am excited to see how guys who played small roles for us last year step up and fill the voids that we have. Offensively, we lost a good portion of our scoring from last season so we will be looking to others to step up and fill those roles.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Ryan Hoopes, 18th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 3-18
2021: 6-15
2022: 12-9
2023: 12-9
2024: 16-7
Key returning players: Abbigail Funk, 5-4, sr., G; Aimee Funk, 5-4, sr., G; Logan Bryant, 5-5, sr., G
Coach Hoopes says: “We have an outstanding group of athletic girls returning. Three of our four seniors have all seen a lot of varsity time and have played in some big time games. Their experience will be very beneficial to the younger players on the team. Many of our younger players will have an opportunity to compete for varsity minutes and make an impact.”
HANOVER WILDCATS
League: Twin Valley
BOYS
Head Coach: Cory Jensen, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 12-10
2021: 23-1
2022: 23-2
2023: 17-6
2024: 18-6
Key returning players: Braylon Meyn, 6-2, jr., G; Garrett Martin, 6-4, sr., F; Tanner Bruna, 6-3, sr., G; Camron Jueneman, 6-2 sr., F
Coach Jensen says: “With 85 percent of our scoring back, over 90 percent of our rebounding back, we are going to lean on our experience, but also hope to put younger kids are in position to thrive and challenge our older players.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Chris Bierkmann, 9th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 23-1
2021: 14-7
2022: 20-5
2023: 25-0
1A TEAMS TO WATCH
22-4
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Jensen says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
HUTCHINSON
CENTRAL CHRISTIAN COUGARS
League: Heart of the Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Adam Clark, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 15-9
2021: 12-8
2022: 9-12
2023: 7-14
2024: 10-12
Key returning players: Brody Froese, 6-0, sr., G; Tucker Clark, 6-1, jr., G; Ry Kooiman, 5-8, sr., G
Coach Clark says: “We are going to have a lot of depth and athleticism on the team this year. We had several returners that gained valuable experience last year and should be able to build on that experience.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: DJ Kauffman, 6th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 19-5
2021: 16-5
2022: 20-5
2023: 15-8
2024: 17-5
Key returning players: Belle Barnett, 5-8, sr., G; Jessa Losew, 5-8, jr., F; Avery Kauffman, 5-3, so., G
Coach Kauffman says: “The Lady Cougars will be looking to improve their 17-5 record last season. The Lady Cougars return three starters and 90 percent of their scoring
from last season. The Lady Cougars look to compete for a HOPL championship and a return to the state tournament.”
LINCOLN LEOPARDS
League: Northern Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Chase Klozenbuher, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 7-13
2021: 4-12
2022: 6-17
2023: 8-13
2024: 11-9
Key returning players: Cooper Rathbun, 6-5, sr., PF; Jeremiah Miller, 6-2, so., PF; Xavier Miller, 6-2, so., G
Coach Klozenbuher says:
“We return a good number of players with varsity experience from last year’s team. Keys for our success include taking better care of the basketball, shooting the ball better from the outside, and being the better rebounding team.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Ryan Perkins, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 7-13
2021: 5-9
2022: 8-13
2023: 9-12
2024: 6-14
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Klozenbuher says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
LITTLE RIVER REDSKINS
League: Wheat State
BOYS
Head Coach: Erik Base, 4th
season
Last five seasons:
2020: 23-3
2021: 22-2
2022: 16-7
2023: 17-6
2024: 11-11
Key returning players: Logan Renken, 6-3, sr., G; Jaxson Konen, 6-2, jr., PG; Ty Janette, 6-3, jr., F
Coach Base says:
“We will lean on him and our juniors to lead our young guys the right way. I feel we will have a lot of depth with the addition of our freshman class. This will allow us to be very competitive at practice and then hopefully transfer to the court on game day.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Cy Rolfs, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 13-10
2021: 19-4
2022: 22-2
2023: 19-2
2024: 24-1
Key returning players: Arike Feldman, 6-1, jr., F; Havana Olander, 5-7, jr., G; Adelynne Strecker Kauffman, 5-4, jr., G
Coach Rolfs says:
“Our goals are to improve every day, compete as hard as we can each time we step on the floor, and be great leaders - on the floor and outside of our sport.”
NORWICH EAGLES
League: Heart of the Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Nicholas Kyle, 5th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 13-11
2021: 15-4
2022: 22-2
2023: 18-5
2024: 15-8
Key returning players: Brayden Pauly, 5-9, sr., G; Kyler Murphy, 6-7, sr., G; Kruce Liddeke, 6-0, sr., F; Jadyen Benge, 5-10. Jr., PG
Coach Kyle says: “Our keys to success this season will be to utilize our length in the full court and minimize mistakes. We will be counting on our underclassmen to value discipline and taking care of the ball.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Nicholas Kyle, 5th season
Last five seasons: 2020: N/A
2021: 19-4
2022: 20-3
2023: 20-4
2024: 20-2
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Kyle says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
OXFORD WILDCATS
League: SCBL
BOYS
Head Coach: Kyle Green, 19th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 7-14
2021: 4-12
2022: 9-14
2023: 12-10
2024: 17-5
Key returning players: Kellen Green, 6-2, jr., G; Cordell Jordan, 6-2, sr., G; Sam Wheeler, 5-9, sr., G
Coach Green says: “We have the potential to have
a solid season. Last year, we gelled quickly, won the SCBL title, and made a decent run in the postseason. We are an experienced ball club that has played together for a long time and had success at every level.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Kyle Green, 19th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 4-17
2021: 6-9
2022: 11-10
2023: 7-15
2024: 8-14
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Green says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
PEABODY-BURNS WARRIORS
League: Wheat State
BOYS
Head Coach: Bob Kyle, 35th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 5-17
2021: 12-8
2022: 7-14
2023: 4-15
2024: 3-17
Last five seasons: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Kyle says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
PIKE VALLEY PANTHERS
League: Northern Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Blaine Joonas, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 11-10
2021: 6-6
2022: 9-11
2023: 10-9
2024: 10-8
Key returning players: Andrew Cooper, 6-3, sr., G/F; Miles Rickard, 6-0, sr., F; Braxton Patterson, 6-2, sr., C
PRETTY PRAIRIE BULLDOGS
League: Heart of the Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Matt Goering, 3rd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-11
2021: 11-9
2022: 14-8
2023: 6-16
2024: 8-13
Key returning players: Evan Young, 6-1, F., G; Cordell Colton, 5-11, sr., G; Christian Chandler, 6-1, sr., F
Coach Goering says:
“We are very excited to get the basketball season underway. I have a group of guys that love basketball and love to compete. Should be a fun season where we compete and play hard in every game we play.”
GIRLS
Last five seasons:
2020: 5-16
2021: 4-16
2022: 2-18
2023: 0-21
2024: 7-13
Key returning players: Cooper McDill, 6-1, sr., G; Tristyn Reynolds, 5-10, sr., G; Eli Vance, 6-0, sr., G
Coach Vance says: “As a new coach I have been blessed to have all but one player returning from last year’s team. They were coached by an amazing coach, so I know that they are hardworking, disciplined young student-athletes.”
GIRLS
1A
Key returning players: Chris Spencer, 6-0, sr., G; Cade Gossen, 5-9, sr., G; Luke Partridge, 5-11, jr., G
Coach Kyle says:
“We are returning all of our team from last year. We had no seniors a year ago. We will have three seniors this year with experience at the varsity level. We have one junior and the rest of the team will consist of sophomores.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Austin Weaver, 1st season
Coach Joonas says: “The Panthers will be returning experience and attempting to mingle it with youth off the bench. The hope is to get more boys out for ball and continue to develop the program. We plan to play quicker and continue to evolve how the boys play together.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Cole Callaway, 5th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-15
2021: 6-15
2022: 6-14
2023: 7-13
2024: 8-11
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Joonas says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Head Coach: Scott Goering, 7th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 15-7
2021: 18-4
2022: 24-1
2023: 19-3
2024: 11-10
Key returning players: Kaylea Robinson, 5-7, sr., G; Ava White, 5-4, jr., G; Kayleigh Vogl, 5-11, so., F
Coach Goering says: “We lost a lot of scoring from last season and will need new leaders to step up and take over. Our defense should be pretty solid still with most of our best on ball defenders.”
ROCK HILLS GRIZZLIES League: Northern Plains BOYS
Head Coach: Nick Mizner, 7th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 6-15
2021: 1-10
2022: 6-14
2023: 7-13
2024: 9-10
Key returning players: Bethany Simmelink, 5-8, jr., G; Halle Mizner, 5-8, jr., G
Coach Mizner says: “The 2023-24 Season was a rebuilding year after a strong senior class graduated the year before. We will look to improve with the ample experience gained last year from our very young team. Expectations will certainly be higher as the Lady Grizzlies look to be league contenders and advance further into the postseason than ever before.”
RURAL VISTA HEAT
League: Wheat State
BOYS
Head Coach: Stuart Vance, 1st season
Head Coach: Adam Sobba, 8th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 8-13
2021: 7-12
2022: 2-18
2023: 7-14
2024: 13-9
Key returning players: Grant Eskeldson, 6-4, jr., F; Nathan Traynor, 5-10, sr., G; Trucker Mein, 6-1, jr., G
Coach Sobba says:
“After graduating only one senior, Rural Vista brings back loads of experience to build off a 13-win season. The Heat return seven kids who started at least one game last year and 11 letter winners.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Kane Hensley, 10th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 22-1
2021: 13-7
2022: 11-11
2023: 14-8
2024: 3-18
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION
Coach Hensley says: “This will be a full rebuilding year for us as we only have one returning starter off of last year’s team.”
SOUTH HAVEN
CARDINALS
League: SCBL
BOYS
Head Coach: Zachary Norris, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 10-12
2021: 15-7
2022: 10-12
2023: 3-15
2024: 10-13
Key returning players: Brady Russel, 6-0, sr., F; Alex Shore, 6-2, sr., G; Tanner Kelly, 6-1, sr., F
Coach Norris says: “We are very excited to start this new era of South Haven basketball. This is my first year and we have a lot of experienced guys who I look forward to leading our team this season.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Mike Heater, 12th season
Last five seasons:
2020: 16-6
2021: 12-8
2022: 17-2
2023: 17-4
2024: 22-3
Key returning players: Aubrey Pond, 5-8, sr., F; Kelly Theurer, 5-7, jr., G; Addison Heater, 5-6, jr., G
Coach Heater says: “We return many key pieces from last year’s team that made it to state, including our three best scorers. We will rely on a fast paced style, balanced scoring, and pressure defense to have success.”
SYLVAN-LUCAS MUSTANGS
League: Northern Plains
BOYS
Head Coach: Jeff Starkey, 7th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 19-7
2021: 16-5
2022: 17-4
2023: 16-7
2024: 14-7
Key returning players: Connor Charvat, 5-7, sr., G; Harlan Pancost, 5-9, sr., G; Cade
1A TEAMS TO WATCH
Brokes, 6-3, sr., F
Coach Starkey says: “We have a lot of upperclassmen with varsity experience. If we can experience some success early in the year, with a tough early schedule, we could do some big things late in the year.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Brady Ryan, 2nd season
Last five seasons:
2020: 14-9
2021: 14-6
2022: 17-5
2023: 17-7
2024: 17-5
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Starkey says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
UDALL EAGLES
League: SCBL
BOYS
Head Coach: Denis Grahem, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 19-4
2021: 3-15
2022: 8-12
2023: 7-15
2024: 4-18
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Hornecker says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
GIRLS
Head Coach: Nathan Hornecker, 1st season
Last five seasons:
2020: 9-14
2021: 10-14
2022: 2-18
2023: 6-16
2024: 9-14
Key returning players: Lilly Hoffman, 5-5, so., G; Kayl Knapp, 5-7, sr., G; Emily Kerr, 5-3, sr., G
Coach Hornecker says: “As a first year coach my goal is to build the foundation of a successful program here in Udall. We should be competitive in every game we play this season and I look forward to seeing what our team can do. The leadership of our seniors will be key to our success with the talented young core that we have coming up.”
WICHITA INDEPENDENT PANTHERS
League: Central Kansas BOYS
Head Coach: Tyler Keim, 4th season
Last five seasons: 2020: 7-16
2021: 4-12
2022: 17-6
2023: 23-3
2024: 13-9
Key returning players: Tatum Stalkner, 6-3, sr., G; Mason Lipsey, 6-3, sr., F; DJ Surrell, 5-8, sr., G
Coach Keim says: “We are going to look very different this year. We are very young and inexperienced.”
GIRLS
Head Coach: Taylor Mires, 1st season
Last five seasons: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Key returning players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
Coach Keim says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE
South Haven’s Aubrey Pond
By Matt Browning
The process for South Haven’s Aubrey Pond to get into SCCDAT was a simple one.
“I became a part of SCCDAT two years ago,” Pond said. “I had heard my friends talking about it and thought it was a great opportunity for me to get involved.”
There are a variety of activities and initiatives South Haven put on throughout the school and community over the course of the school year.
“At South Haven, we help with Red Ribbon week, make suicide prevention come to light, and many other activities,” Pond said.
There are two areas of her life that SCCDAT has helped bring out and both will prove to be beneficial over the rest of her life.
“I feel that SCCDAT has made me understand more what happens around me that I have no clue about,” Pond said. “And it has also helped me step up as a leader to tell people that these things are not okay to be doing.”
If a prospective student at South Haven or any other school was interested in joining SCCDAT, Pond would have no hesitation to tell them to join.
I would tell anyone to join SCCDAT,” Pond said. It is an amazing group of people with the best leaders.”
In 2023, over 91% of youth reported they have NOT had alcohol in the past 30 days.
KEN GOOCH’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Oxford’s Yasmin Gardea
By Cooper Chadwick
Senior Yasmin Gardea is excited to play her final year of high school basketball and is even more excited to play under Oxford’s new head girls coach, Shawn Burkes. Burkes has been paying attention to Gardea and is very excited to coach an athlete as good as her.
”Watching her, she is a good athlete that plays the game with a lot of energy. She has qualified for state track the last two years in the 300m hurdles, so that shows me she isn’t afraid of hard work,” Burkes said Gardea, who can play either point guard or shooting guard, last year earned all-league first team, and all-state honorable mention. Gardea also had a game where she scored 32 points and she’s excited to try to beat that goal.
Three-point shooting is Gardea’s bread and butter, but she is still wanting to improve on that and her ball handling to be a better point guard, and she’ll do it anyway she can.
“Shooting around at the park or school, I also looked up ball handling drills online and did those,” Gardea said.
Motivation to play the game comes easy for Gardea. It’s all about her constant want to get better every day.
As a senior, Gardea has to become more of a leader for a young Oxford team, and she is ready to do so.
“I am the captain of the team and team leader,” Gardea said. “The younger players look up to me as a role model.”
By Cooper Chadwick
Flinthills’ Jake Hunter
Leadership is one of the main qualities that Head coach Mike Hunter said makes junior Jake Hunter not just a good basketball player, but an even better person.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with many talented athletes. Jake stands out for his leadership,” Mike Hunter said. “His work ethic is truly unmatched; he constantly puts in extra hours in the offseason, always striving to improve his skills as a point guard. His positive attitude and commitment to excellence create a contagious energy that elevates our entire team. I couldn’t ask for a better player or leader.”
Jake Hunter, who plays point guard for Flinthills, knows that he has to continue being a leader to help his team succeed this year.
“A few goals that I have for myself this year are being the best leader I can be and a good role model to others,” Jake Hunter said. “I want us to give 100 percent every time we step on the court for practice or a game. I would like us to have a good attitude and react the right way when something doesn’t go the way we want.”
As a sophomore Jake Hunter averaged 16.8 points per game 2.5 assists and 2.7 steals, earning him second team all-league, Fairfield Classic all-tournament team and honorable mention all- state.
Jake Hunter is committed to continually getting better by working on his weaknesses as well as
his strengths.
“One area that I am wanting to improve on this upcoming year is my defense. Last basketball season, I was known for my point guard ability on offense. I would like my defensive skills to match that,” Jake Hunter said.
Oxford’s Kellen Green
By Cooper Chadwick
The only thing on Junior Kellen Green’s mind this season is breaking a streak 72-year old streak of Oxford not making it to the state tournament, and he believes this is the year that streak will be broken.
With his father, Kyle Green being the head coach at Oxford for 19 years, Kellen Green has grown up in the OHS gym.
“It’s a pretty special thing to have your son play for you and the father/son time we have in a gym can’t be beat,” Head coach Kyle Green said. “It’s pretty neat to have my alumni from past years who remember him as a little boy text me and call me after our games. Those guys were his hero’s when he was little and now he is following in their footsteps.”
Last year Kellen Green averaged 14.9 points per game, 8.7 rebounds and 3.5 steals shooting at an impressive 45% from three, which earned him first
team all-league and third Team all-state.
Offseason is the time where good basketball players become great, and Kellen Green hopes all the work he put in will make him great.
“I played AAU basketball from April- June. I got in the gym every time I could. I got a lot of shots up on our shooting machine at the school. I worked hard in the offseason so I can help my team win this season,” Kellen Green said.
WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Attica’s Zoie Redgate
By Cooper Chadwick
Being a four-year starter is not easy, but senior Zoie Redgate has stepped up to the challenge since her freshman year and is ready to have a record last year of high school basketball with the Attica Bulldogs.
Head coach Scotty McCartney attributes a lot of Attica high school’s success to Redgate.
“Zoie plays volleyball, basketball, and track. She has been to the state track meet quite a few times for throwing javelin. She is a great athlete and kid. She plays with passion, competitiveness, and unselfishness. She is getting close to the 1000 career points,” McCartney said.
Redgate has a long list of accomplishments at Attica, such as being the two-time winner of the three-point contest at the 54 Classic Tournament and also being the two-time MVP there as well.
Last year earning all-state honorable mention, Redgate averaged 15 points per game, 5.4 rebounds and 5.9 steals. Redgate this year is looking to help her team have a successful season for her final year of basketball.
“I’m excited to compete and make the most out of my last
season,” Redgate said. “I am a four-year starter, so just being a team leader and helping the team in whatever ways I can.
Being an athlete that plays more than one sport means that it is not easy to focus on continually getting better at one particular sport. But Redgate has found time to balance it all and relate one to the other.
“I am a multi-sport athlete which all play a part in helping me get in shape and to be stronger for the season,” Redgate said. “I find time to go to the gym and practice ball handling as well as shooting.”
By Matt Browning
Clearwater’s Camryn Carlson
Clearwater’s Camryn Carlson knows how important her role is as a member of SAFE.
“The perks of being is SAFE is being able to have a voice to influence safe driving around our school and community,” Carlson said. “It has benefited me by being a role model for our school for underclassmen to look up to.”
ktsro.org/safe
Carlson and her fellow SAFE members put on numerous events throughout the school year.
Buckle up. Phones down. Have fun.
“Our major event we do is our Winter Royalty crowning ceremony and dance during basketball season,” Carlson said. “We have pledge cards for students to sign that go into a drawing to win gift cards and prizes. We also do ‘Chalk It Up’ which we write driving tips on our sidewalk for students to read on their way into school.”
Not only does the SAFE program make an impact on the school, but Carlson thinks the community also appreciates what SAFE does.
“The impact SAFE has on our community and school is
huge,” Carlson said. “We always are doing little things to encourage safe driving for not only the students but the community as well.”
There is an appropriate balance between fun and serious for the Clearwater SAFE program.
“I would recommend them to definitely join SAFE,” Carlson said. “As a team we want to make things fun for the school, but also make sure we promote safety among each other.”
By Matt Browning
Speedway Village Fieldhouse
Hellas Construction recently installed Matrix Helix synthetic turf at the Speedway Village Fieldhouse in Lincoln, Nebraska.
“The old artificial turf was tired and approaching dangerous for athletes,” said Sara Martin, Speedway Village Executive Project Developer. “We needed better and knew the technology of artificial turf production and install had significantly evolved over the last decade. Our primary focus is soccer, so after some research combined with Nebraska’s best soccer expert advice, it was apparent this turf is what kids deserved.”
Martin said Speedway Village also hired Hellas for a separate project inside the fieldhouse.
“We also hired Hellas to turf our upper indoor mezzanine space,” Martin said. “Over the 12-year life span of the building, this area
has served offices, team gatherings, and spectator viewing. The exponential growth of 402 Development Academy soccer in Lincoln demanded another flexible training space, so Hellas transformed it as visioned. Now the upper mezzanine is ideal for speed / agility training, small group work, and soccer touch drills.”
Speedway Village’s relationship with Hellas was solid from the first phone call and led to an efficient and effective relationship throughout the entire project.
“John Dorsett was an excellent project manager,” Martin said. “He visited the site pre-install, and patiently answered lingering questions about process. The crew John sent to Lincoln for install was outstanding. My bachelor’s degree is in Art Education, so I am trained with a discerning eye for design and execution. The crew consulted me about the fine finishing details that matter and watching them work was mesmerizing. They are turf artists.”
HELLAS BUILDS FOR SPORTS FROM START TO FINISH
Hellas provides a complete scope of services for sports surfaces and amenities including manufacturing, design/build, construction, installation, service, and maintenance.
By Matt Browning
A local product, Jamie Patrick came to Hutch CC from Hutchinson Central Christian High School where she was Class 1A all-state in both basketball and volleyball. After Hutch, Patrick played for two seasons at Colorado State University.
Patrick’s first season on the bench was quite successful. The 2018-19 Blue Dragons posted a 33-4 record and earned an at-large bid to the NJCAA Tournament. Hutch advanced all the way to the national semifinals.
Then in 2020, the Blue Dragons captured the Jayhawk West championship and had earned an at-large bid to the 2020 NJCAA National Tournament. But the Coronavirus pandemic forced the cancelation of the national tournament as Hutchinson ended up with a 28-4 overall record.
Patrick played for the Blue Dragons and current head coach John Ontjes from 2012
to 2014. All that happened in those two seasons were two Jayhawk West championships, two Region VI Tournament championships, a thirdplace national tournament finish in 2013 and a national runner-up finish in 2014, not to mention a combined record of 71-3, including 31-1 in conference play.
Patrick was twice an All-Jayhawk West and Region VI selection (2nd team in 2013 and 1st team in 2014). She was a second-team NJCAA AllAmerican in 2014 after scoring a team single-season record 626 points.
For one season, Patrick was the Blue Dragons’ career scoring leader after amassing 1,098 points in her two seasons at Hutchinson. She was a 52.0 percent career shooter and made the seventh-most 3-pointers in team history with 132.
Jamie Patrick
SPORTS FOR ALL
Sportsmanship Development
YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight Seth Hadley
By Matt Browning
For about three years, Seth Hadley has been volunteering at the YMCA. He has coached a variety of sports, including tee-ball, basketball and soccer.
“It’s been a wonderful experience to engage with the kids in different activities, helping them explore their interests and develop new skills,” Hadley said. “As my sons grow and take an interest in even more sports, I look forward to expanding my coaching role to cover new areas, allowing us to experience the full breadth of what the Y offers together.”
Some of the best memories Hadley remembers from volunteering is seeing his own son grow as an athlete.
“One of my most cherished memories is watching the kids grow both in their athletic abilities and as individuals,” Hadley said. “Seeing my son, Elliot, progress from struggling with basic skills to confidently dribbling, passing, and shooting was a proud moment.”
While life can get a little hectic for Hadley, volunteering allows him to free his mind of the daily stresses.
“Coaching gives me a refreshing break from the routine and adds positivity to my week,” Hadley said. “The energy and excitement the kids bring to each practice and game help keep me motivated, even on busier days.”
There are so many different reasons why Hadley would suggest that a person volunteers at the YMCA.
“Volunteering at the Y has been an incredibly fulfilling experience, allowing me to connect with the community and support young athletes as they learn,” Hadley said. “It’s a fantastic way to give back, inspire kids, and even learn a few lessons yourself. Coaching isn’t just about teaching skills—it’s about helping kids develop confidence, resilience, and a love for learning.”
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