To add a deserving player to this list, email the name, school, and grade of your nominee, along with the reason you are nominating them to [email protected]
Colin Shaughnessy (Axtell)
Axtell’s scoring engine is averaging 25.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game while shooting 55.7% from the floor and 36.4% from three. He can score at all three levels and still finds teammates for easy looks. His efficiency at high volume makes him one of the most dangerous guards in Kansas. Night after night, he sets the tone for Axtell’s offense.
Jacob Miller (Buhler)
Buhler’s senior captain is a steady two-way presence, averaging 11.8 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game while shooting 43.2% from the field. He does the dirty work on the glass and provides timely scoring in the frontcourt. His leadership and consistency help anchor a veteran group.
Isaiah Heredia (Buhler)
At point guard, the senior captain runs the Crusaders with poise, averaging 9.5 points, 3.2 assists and 2.4 steals per game. He shoots 39.6% from three and 41.8% overall, stretching defenses while taking care of the ball. Isaiah’s defense at the point of attack often sets the tone for Buhler’s intensity.
Luke Holmberg (Buhler)
Another senior captain for Buhler, Luke is averaging 10.9 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1 assist per game. He’s a marksman from deep, hitting 37.1% from three and 45% overall from the field. His size, shooting and leadership give Buhler a reliable wing threat every night.
Drake Skirvin (Burlingame)
Burlingame’s senior forward is a double‑double machine, with 252 points (22.9 per game) on 58% shooting and 166 rebounds (15.1 per game). He’s also contributed 26 assists, 16 steals and 36 blocks, and set the single‑game rebound record with 27 boards against Lebo. Drake’s dominance in the paint makes him one of the most imposing bigs in 1A.
Kustom Schamp (Canton‑Galva)
Canton‑Galva’s junior guard has started since his freshman year and remains the heartbeat of the team. He’s averaging 20.2 points and 4.3 steals per game after earning second‑team all‑league honors last season. A year‑round gym rat and emotional leader, he drives their identity on both ends of the floor.
Ethan Brozek & Jaxon Nightingale (Canton‑Galva)
Canton‑Galva also leans on two more multi‑year starters in Ethan and Jaxon. Ethan is averaging 17.6 points per game, providing another consistent scoring punch, while Jaxon adds 13.8 points and 10.4 rebounds per night as a true interior force. Like Kustom, both serve as captains, giving the Eagles a seasoned trio that has grown together since their freshman campaigns.
James Braun (Central-Burden)
Central Burden’s senior standout has opened the season on a tear, averaging 18 points, 8 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game. His play on both ends has led the Raiders to a perfect 10–0 start. With his size, skill and leadership, he’s the backbone of their unbeaten run.
Quentin Alderfer (Centralia)
Centralia’s junior guard has started since his freshman year and is now averaging 19.8 points per game. He’s shooting 40.4% from the field (72‑for‑178) and 35.6% from three (31‑for‑87), often while being face‑guarded or boxed‑and‑one with no help off him. Even with that defensive attention, he continues to put up big numbers and remain the focal point of every scouting report.
Hayden Frederick (Conway Springs)
Conway Springs’ junior point guard literally grew up in the gym as the son of longtime assistant coach Craig Frederick. A self‑made gym rat, he’s averaging 15 points per game and scores in a variety of ways. As his understanding of the game has deepened, he’s learning how to lead from the point and orchestrate the Cardinals’ offense, all while being a high‑character student who elevates the program’s culture.
Tyler Ostmeyer (Decatur Community)
Decatur Community’s unquestioned leader is the kind of player a coach can always count on. Unselfish and fiercely competitive, he cares more about winning than scoring. Tyler leads by example in every drill and every game, and his coach believes he’s destined to do great things beyond the court.
Gage Williby (Decatur Community)
At point guard, Gage provides scoring and vision for Decatur Community. He sees the floor extremely well and has the talent and upside to play at the next level. His coach is proud of his growth and excited about where his game can take him in the future.
William Lechtenberg (El Dorado)
El Dorado’s primary scorer and rebounder, William is averaging 12 points and 6.6 rebounds per game. He’s already posted monster nights on the glass, including 17 rebounds against Hutch Trinity and 15 against Wellington. Coaches believe he’s only scratching the surface of his potential as his confidence continues to grow.
Jalen Busick (Fairfield)
Fairfield’s sophomore guard has made a huge leap after starting as a freshman. He leads the team in scoring at 17.6 points per game on 38% shooting, while also averaging 2 steals and 2.1 assists per contest. Currently ranked No. 10 in 1A‑I in scoring and No. 1 in the Heart of the Plains League, he’s a smooth, quiet leader who has already matched last year’s win total by midseason.
Dawson Ruder (Hays)
Hays features a powerful inside‑out presence in Dawson, who is averaging 18 points and 7 rebounds per game. He gives the Indians a reliable scorer who can also control the glass. His consistency in the frontcourt helps stabilize Hays on both ends.
Izaac Fox (Hays)
Another key piece for Hays, Izaac is averaging 16 points and 9 rebounds per game. His work on the boards complements Dawson and gives Hays a formidable front line. Together, they form one of the more productive frontcourt tandems in the state.
Mehki Stephens (Lansing)
Lansing’s 6-foot-2 junior guard/forward has been a three‑year starter and steady climber in the UKC ranks. An honorable‑mention All‑UKC pick as a freshman and second‑team selection as a sophomore, he’s increased his scoring from 16 to 18 and now 23 points per game this season while adding 5 rebounds a night. With a great basketball IQ and a knack for clutch shots — twice hitting go‑ahead or tying buckets in the final 15 seconds — he draws comparisons from his coach to former star Grant Greenberg.
Deacon Manthe (Lansing)
At 6-foot-7, Deacon is a junior guard/forward who transferred from the Philippines and brings tremendous upside. He’s averaging 9.3 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, impacting both ends with his length. With his size, skill set and growth curve, his potential is sky‑high.
Paco Espinoza (Lyons)
Lyons’ energetic captain has taken another step this season. He’s averaging 14.1 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2 steals per game and has multiple 20‑plus outings, including a career‑high 27. With a big vertical that lets him soar over defenders and clean up the glass, he plays with joy and a constant smile that lifts his teammates.
Tegan Link (Lyons)
A hard worker and fierce competitor, Tegan gives Lyons a physical presence in the lane. He’s averaging 10 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2 steals per game while serving as a vocal leader on the floor. His court awareness and passing from the post help him find open teammates and exploit defensive weaknesses.
Carlos Ibarra (Macksville)
Macksville’s senior leader has been steady and productive on the wing. He’s averaging 11.3 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game and has improved as both a scorer and voice as the season has gone on. Coaches expect him to continue making key plays as the year progresses.
Nolan Adams (Macksville)
For Macksville, Nolan’s return from cancer has been one of the season’s most inspiring stories. As his strength and conditioning improve, he’s anchoring the paint defensively and averaging 2.7 points and 4.2 rebounds in limited minutes. His impact goes far beyond the stat sheet, and his numbers should rise as he continues to work his way back.
Reece Riedel (Mill Valley)
Mill Valley’s fourth‑year letterman has been the catalyst for a 9–2 start. Reece is averaging 19 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 3.5 steals per game, often guarding the opponent’s best player and holding them below their averages. Signed with Washburn University, he’s set to hit 1,000 career points this week and challenge several all‑time program records, routinely elevating his play against one of the toughest schedules in the state.
JaKhai Carter (Mill Valley)
Another proven winner for Mill Valley, JaKhai has been a key playmaker for three seasons. He’s averaging 12.2 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game and is also closing in on the 1,000‑point milestone. One of the best athletes in Kansas, he can score from all three levels and fits perfectly alongside Reece in the Jaguars’ backcourt.
Sam Simmons (Olathe North)
In many eyes, Olathe North’s floor general is the best pure point guard in Kansas. Committed to the University of Richmond, he is jet‑quick, creates havoc on both ends, and is on pace to break the school’s all‑time steals record. Widely regarded as the best on‑ball defender in program history, he also turns defense into instant offense and runs the show with confidence.
Cam Love (Olathe North)
At 6-foot-5, Cam is a four‑year starter and one of the most versatile wings in the Sunflower League. He can play four different offensive spots — including point guard — and defend all five positions, while serving as an elite rebounder and high‑level athlete. With the ability to score in a variety of ways and flip defense into offense in a hurry, he forms an elite duo with Simmons.
Gavin Popik (Olathe Northwest)
Olathe Northwest’s go‑to scorer is averaging 24 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals per game. He’s shooting 58% from the field, 37% from three, and 81% from the line, combining volume with elite efficiency. Gavin recently surpassed 1,000 career points in a win over rival Olathe West and has a real chance to become the Ravens’ all‑time leading scorer.
Jacob Corrales (Olathe South)
Olathe South’s junior guard is in the midst of a breakout season, averaging 17.1 points per game. He’s shooting close to 50% from the field and an impressive 44% from three, while adding 3 rebounds and 2 assists per night. Recently he tied his single‑game record with 9 threes and scored a career‑high 34 points against SM North, underscoring just how dangerous he is when he gets hot.
Jaxon Chai (Olathe South)
The Falcons’ lone returning starter, Jaxon has embraced his senior leadership role. He’s averaging 12 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists per game while knocking down 43% of his threes and 86% of his free throws. His steady play, shot‑making and experience have provided stability to a largely new lineup.
Jameson Miles (Peabody‑Burns)
Peabody‑Burns leans heavily on its senior leader in the paint and on the perimeter. Jameson is averaging 14.5 points and 9.5 rebounds per game, nearly a double‑double. He sets the tone for the team on and off the floor with his effort and leadership.
Houston Habiger (Perry‑Lecompton)
Perry‑Lecompton’s breakout scorer has taken the league by storm in his first varsity season. He’s averaging 18 points and 6 rebounds per game, with several nights over 25 points, and is shooting 85% from the free‑throw line. Playing like a unanimous first‑team all‑league selection at the midway point, he has quickly become a focal point of every opponent’s game plan.
Ezra Benne (Pike Valley)
Pike Valley’s rising talent brings energy and toughness to every possession. He competes hard on both ends, does the little things that don’t always show up in the box score and is gaining confidence as a scorer. As his role grows, he is emerging as a key piece of the program’s future.
DJ Jackson (Piper)
Piper’s senior star is off to an incredible start against one of the toughest schedules in 5A. Through eight games he’s averaging 23 points, 6.38 rebounds and 4.5 assists, including a 40‑point outburst versus Shawnee Heights and 30 against Missouri power Oak Park. Despite being the focal point of every defense, he’s shooting 45% from the field, 33% from three and 71% from the line and remains one of the most feared scorers in the state.
Porter Gill (Rock Creek)
Rock Creek’s sharpshooting guard is averaging 10.9 points and 3 assists per game while hitting 50% from three. His ability to stretch defenses from deep opens driving lanes for his teammates. As a confident perimeter threat, he plays a pivotal role in Rock Creek’s spacing and flow.
Gavin Rosa (Rock Creek)
Another offensive weapon for Rock Creek, Gavin averages 12.7 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists per contest. He’s a dangerous marksman, connecting on 42% of his threes. His scoring punch from the perimeter gives Rock Creek balance and multiple options late in games.
Peter Martinie (Rock Creek)
The glue guy of Rock Creek’s lineup, Peter averages 6.8 points, 5 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.3 steals per game. His coach calls him one of the best defenders in the state, and he often takes on the toughest assignment. With his passing, rebounding, and defense, he impacts winning at a high level.
Logan Klingenberg (Rock Creek)
Rounding out a deep core, Logan is averaging 12.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. He can score from multiple spots and help on the glass, giving Rock Creek another versatile threat. Together, this quartet makes Rock Creek one of the more balanced attacks in Kansas.
Zander Ford (Rose Hill)
Rose Hill’s lead guard is doing a bit of everything in a balanced 6–6 campaign. Through 12 games he’s averaging 13.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 3.2 steals per game. His playmaking, defense and leadership drive the Rockets’ tempo and competitiveness.
Aidan Haugh (Rose Hill)
Another key piece for Rose Hill, Aidan is averaging 11.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1 steal per game. He’s shooting 58% from the field (51‑for‑88) and 55% from three (11‑for‑20), providing elite efficiency. His ability to knock down shots and rebound from the wing makes him a perfect complement to Zander in the Rockets’ lineup.
Jake Mooney (Russell)
Russell’s two‑year captain is the definition of a high‑character leader. He’s shooting about 40% from three (31 makes), 80% from the line and averaging 12.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.6 steals per game, despite constant face‑guarding and tight coverage. Always positive, professional and team‑first, he does everything the right way and has already scored 141 points this season while lifting his teammates with his energy.
Sam Thielen (Russell)
Another captain for Russell, Sam is an ultra‑athletic, high‑motor guard who plays with joy. He has scored 161 points this season, averaging 14.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game and has taken six charges while shooting 35% from three (25 makes). Coming off a 35‑point eruption earlier in the year, he draws heavy defensive attention yet stays upbeat and team‑oriented.
Will Tuttle (Salina Sacred Heart)
Salina Sacred Heart’s junior forward is coming off a first‑team all‑NCAA season and second‑team 2A all‑state honors. Through 12 games this year, he’s averaging 17.5 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. His size, touch and résumé make him one of the premier 2A players in Kansas.
Noah Hines (Salina Sacred Heart)
Another decorated Knight, Noah was first‑team all‑league last season and remains a key contributor. He’s averaging 12.5 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists per game through 12 contests. His playmaking and scoring alongside Tuttle give Sacred Heart a formidable one‑two punch.
KaeVon Bonner (Seaman)
Seaman’s explosive guard is putting up MVP‑level numbers. He’s averaging 27.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.7 assists and 3 steals per game and has already surpassed 1,000 career points, including a 42‑point effort against Lansing. With that kind of production and big‑game scoring, he has firmly established himself among the state’s elite.
Lachlan McRae (Tonganoxie)
Tonganoxie’s do‑it‑all senior is a four‑year starter in basketball, soccer and golf. He leads the Chieftains with 22.6 points, 4 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game while carrying a 4.10 GPA. A true gym rat, he spends his free time coaching youth teams and officiating recreational leagues, showing how deeply the game runs in his life.
Bryson McComas (Topeka)
Topeka’s versatile forward is averaging 15 points and 8 rebounds per game, impacting contests as a scorer, rebounder and playmaker. Bigger, stronger and more confident than a year ago, he competes hard on both ends and has grown into a natural leader. With his team‑first mindset and work ethic, he has a very bright future at the next level.
Elisha Guest (Topeka)
Topeka High’s dynamic guard plays with the heart of a giant. He’s averaging 13.5 points and 3.5 assists per game and has already knocked down 26 threes at a 38% clip from deep. Though smaller in stature, his toughness, confidence, and clutch shooting make him a key piece of the Trojans’ success.
Vladon Crawford (Trego Community)
Trego’s 6-foot freshman has burst onto the scene as one of the state’s most impressive newcomers. He leads the team in scoring (15.4), rebounds (5.2), assists (4.8) and steals (2.3) per game and recently posted a 30‑point outing against 3A Phillipsburg. With an exceptional basketball IQ and leadership qualities already evident, he has a very bright future ahead.
Jordan Hornecker (Udall)
Udall’s underrated guard is a difference‑maker whose value goes beyond the box score. He’s averaging 14.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.2 steals per game and his deep shooting range stretches defenses all over the floor. Able to guard all five positions and serve as an on‑court extension of the coach, he makes the Eagles’ offense come alive when he’s in the game.
Nick Sander (Victoria)
Victoria’s sophomore point guard has had a strong start to his second varsity season. He’s taken on a larger leadership role and uses his length and athleticism to create matchup problems on offense and generate deflections and steals on defense. As he continues to grow into the position, his impact on both ends should only increase.
Chayse Gross (Washington County)
Washington County’s 6-foot-4 sophomore is a second‑year starter and stat‑sheet stuffer. He leads the team in scoring (12.5), steals (2.9) and rebounds (8.0) per game and has recorded five double‑doubles in 11 games. The Tigers average 52‑plus points with him in the lineup but just 39 and 35 in the two games he missed, underscoring his importance. With a game high of 25 versus Pike Valley and his concussion now behind him, his coach expects him to only get better.
A.J. Batiste (Wichita Collegiate School)
A.J. has been a dynamic scoring guard for Wichita Collegiate this season. He is averaging 19.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, with two 30-point performances and double figures in nine of ten contests, often sitting the fourth quarter because of lopsided scores. His ability to take over games while still contributing on the glass and as a passer makes him a central piece of the offense.
Kamari Jennings (Wichita Collegiate School)
Providing explosive scoring from the perimeter, Kamari is averaging 17.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. He has already posted two 30-point outings this season and once knocked down eight three-pointers in a single game against Andale, showcasing his ability to get hot from deep.
Sebastian Hines-Turner (Wichita Collegiate School)
Running the show for Wichita Collegiate, Sebastian is averaging 19.8 points, 7.6 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game. He has recorded three games with 25 or more points, has scored in double figures in nine of ten contests and currently leads the team in points, rebounds, and assists.
