Tournament Analysis: Top Unranked Wings Performances
We learned some new names and gained greater appreciation for some unranked players in the state tournaments. Here are some of the top performances by unranked wings in the 2023 big dance (in alphabetical order): Micah Dahlsten, 6-foot-2 forward, 2023,…
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Continue ReadingWe learned some new names and gained greater appreciation for some unranked players in the state tournaments. Here are some of the top performances by unranked wings in the 2023 big dance (in alphabetical order):
Micah Dahlsten, 6-foot-2 forward, 2023, Hesston:
A player we hadn’t heard of before this winter, Dahlsten averaged 7 points per game during the season. He was a good second option for the Swathers. He took it to another level in the three game run. He was efficient hitting 13-23, including five 3-pointers. He scored 35 points.
Conor Dunback, 5-foot-10 forward, 2023, Eudora:
When defenses were taking away the Cardinals’ first and second options, Dunback benefitted. He roamed around the baseline and sliced through the lane to catch passes and quickly get shots off before bigger defenders could find him. He’s quick and springy, which works for surprising results in the paint. Dunback hit 17-27 shots for 34 points. But his contribution didn’t end there. He was a pesky defender and led the team in rebounds in each of the three games.
Joseph Dyck, 6-foot-2 forward, 2024, South Gray:
Here’s the guy who probably did the most for himself in terms of statewide recognition. His stats weren’t publicized prior to the tournament, and only then did we become aware that he averaged 18 points and 9 boards. He was a machine in the tournament. He showed range and athleticism to get to jumpers off the bounce. He shot the lights out for 65 points on 25-39 attempts. He also put up impressive rebounding numbers.
Lance Lickiss, 6-foot-2 forward, 2023, Macksville:
Lickiss was really good in his senior season. He averaged 9.5 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. But he sort of stayed unheralded on a deep team with a lot of weapons. So it came as a bit of a surprise when Lickiss went for 20 points in back-to-back games to led the Mustangs to the title. In the semifinal and final game combined, Lickiss hit 18-24 shot for 43 points and grabbed 25 rebounds. That’s a way to end your career!
Gabe Pyle Gabe Pyle 6'5" | SF McPherson | 2025 State KS , 6-foot-4 forward, 2025, McPherson:
Pyle’s first two games of the tournament were outstanding. He torched Wellington for 3-5 3-pointers on his way to 15 points. He stretched the defense for McPherson guards to drive the lane. Pyle has great range and can also pass, rebound and defend. Pyle struggled shooting in the championship, but he did dish out 4 assists in that game. With a loaded group of returners for McPherson, Pyle will be a player to watch.
Keveon Ruiz, 6-foot-2 forward, 2025, Medicine Lodge:
Ruiz provided a powerful and athletic weapon for the Indians. He can handle the ball and get into the paint for pullup jumpers. He can get to the goal and create his own shot, and he works hard on the glass. Ruiz averaged 13.5 and 5 rebounds on the season, and he scored 34 in the tournament.