Big Shoes to Fill: 2A

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>All-state players aren't replaced. Teams move on after graduating star players by spreading the load around and making accommodations.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>But in the following cases, there are talented players ready to take on bigger roles in the absence of a 2A all-state graduate (in alphabetical order):</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Cole Frank</strong>, 5-foot-9 guard, 2026, Wabaunsee:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Eli Oliver</strong> was part of a lot of wins and a lot of success over the years. The most likely to take up some of his role is Frank, a creative, rugged playmaker. He can get in the lane and get shots, dish the ball and use his strength against opposing guards. He doesn't have the length Oliver brought to the game, but he isn't afraid to take the lead for the Chargers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2321606' first='Henry' last='Hecox']</strong>, 6-foot-2 guard, 2025, Moundridge:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Wildcats will say farewell to brilliant point guard <strong>Landon Kaufman</strong>. Helping replace his production and leadership will be Hecox, a long guard who contributed tremendous versatility on the state title run. He was an unsung hero at the tournament, scoring 31 points on a remarkable 14-17 shooting. He can build on the 9 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists he averaged as a sophomore.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Drew Heinz</strong>, 5-foot-10 guard, 2024, Ellinwood:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>No one will replace the production of <strong>Britton Dutton</strong>. He averaged 20 points over a 100-game career. The Eagles won't put anyone in that position. But they will look to Heinz for ballhandling, perimeter shooting and feisty defense. Heinz has a lot of experience and athleticism. The Eagles will have a lot of holes to fill, so senior leadership will be essential.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1962890' first='Brady' last='Hurla'], 5-foot-11 guard, 2025, St. Marys (pictured):</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Keller Hurla</strong> did everything the Bears needed from a shooting guard-type of role. [player_tooltip player_id='1962890' first='Brady' last='Hurla'] is more or a traditional point guard and is solid for ball handling and distribution. But next season he will have a lot more responsibility to create his own shots and let it fly from deep. He's accurate and creative at finding shots. He will have to be because opponents will know he has to score more.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2314802' first='Jaden' last='Nuss']</strong>, 6-2 forward, 2024, Hill City:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1953948' first='Trent' last='Long']</strong> had a very productive career for the Ringnecks. The 6-foot-5 center won't be easily replaced. But Nuss had a nice junior year with 13 points and 5 rebounds. He will be looked to for more production and versatility next year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->