Kansas Preview: Meadowlark League’s Top Teams Loaded with Talent

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Meadowlark League has been home to some outstanding players and teams in recent years, and this season looks to be no different. With a field of talented players, the league race is shaping up to generate some great performances. In this preview, I take a closer look at the league -- highlighting potential sleeper teams, identifying the top title contender, naming my pick for league champion, unveiling my “Top 5” All-Conference team, and selecting the Meadowlark League Player of the Year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Sleepers - Sumner, Highland Park, Schlagle</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Sumner Academy may not be making much noise heading into the season, but they're a team with the tools to surprise. After finishing last year with a .500 record in Meadowlark League play, the Sabres were plagued by inconsistency — alternating between flashes of promise and stretches of underwhelming play. This season, though, there's a different energy. With more experience and a more cohesive roster, Sumner looks improved, even if they're still flying under the radar. Leading the charge is dynamic guard Jaxon Davis, arguably one of the most gifted athletes in the league. Davis is a game-changer — a high-octane scorer with elite quickness, length, and body control. His slashing ability is elite, often slicing through defenses and finishing at the rim with creativity, touch, and remarkable hang time. He consistently draws contact and still manages to convert, making him a tough cover for even the best defenders. But Davis' impact goes beyond the offensive end. On defense, he uses his lateral agility and long wingspan to stay in front of shifty guards, contest shots effectively, and disrupt passing lanes. His instincts allow him to create turnovers and quickly turn them into fast-break points. He's also an active rebounder for his position, frequently sparking transition opportunities with his ability to clean the glass and push the pace. The key question for Sumner is whether Davis will have enough support. Senior forward Angelo Reese is expected to anchor the frontcourt with his experience and steadiness, but the Sabres will need more from their supporting cast — especially in terms of consistent scoring and defensive intensity. If the role players can rise to the occasion, Sumner could take a significant step forward in the league standings. They may not be favorites against the top-tier programs, but with Davis on the floor, they'll be competitive in every game. And if things click, the Sabres could emerge as one of the Meadowlark League's biggest surprises by season's end.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Highland Park enters the 2025–26 season facing a new era — one defined by transition, growth, and opportunity. After several dominant years atop the Meadowlark League, the Scots will look very different this winter, with a new head coach and a reshaped roster following the departure of several key contributors. The recent run of success has set a high standard, but this season will be about reestablishing the program's identity and building toward sustained future success. While replacing proven talent and leadership is never easy, Highland Park isn't hitting the reset button entirely. They return two young guards in JoJo Kingcannon and G'Honi Montgomery, both of whom have been battle-tested through the program's success in recent years. Now, they'll step into significantly larger roles — both in terms of production and leadership. JoJo Kingcannon is a confident and quick backcourt presence who plays with energy and edge. Offensively, he shows flashes of shot-making ability and is most dangerous when pushing the tempo. He's capable of getting downhill, putting pressure on defenses, and scoring at the rim or kicking out to open shooters. Defensively, he plays with intensity and embraces on-ball challenges, setting the tone on that end of the floor. G'Honi Montgomery brings a similarly aggressive mindset, particularly on the defensive side, where he excels at disrupting passing lanes and applying pressure. Offensively, he has the tools to create off the bounce and isn't afraid to take big shots. With increased usage, his confidence and decision-making should continue to grow as the season progresses. While Highland Park may not enter the year as a top-tier contender in the league, they should not be overlooked. With two young guards ready to lead, a fresh coaching perspective, and a tradition of winning to build on, the Scots have the potential to surprise teams and grow into a dangerous opponent by the end of the season. Their journey this year may be more about development than dominance — but don't be surprised if they play spoiler along the way.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Schlagle Stallions are heading into the new season with a mix of uncertainty and quiet confidence. Last year, the team leaned heavily on its top two scoring options, who have since graduated, leaving behind a significant void in offensive production. However, what Schlagle may lack in returning firepower, they more than make up for in youthful experience and developing depth. This year's roster features several juniors and sophomores who've been battle-tested against varsity competition. They may have started out as role players, but now they'll be asked to take on much more — in scoring, leadership, and consistency. One of the biggest questions entering the season is whether those supporting players can evolve into focal points on both ends of the floor. The offense might take time to find its rhythm early in the year, but the Stallions could be a difficult matchup by midseason if the supporting cast steps up. Guiding this transition is senior guard Cincere Lewis, one of the most experienced players in the program. Lewis led the team in assists last season and showed an advanced feel for the game, often acting as a second coach on the floor. He's a capable scorer in his own right, but his greatest strength lies in his ability to get others involved and set the tempo. As the lone returning starter with major production, Lewis will need to balance his own offensive aggression with facilitating for teammates who are still adjusting to larger roles. If he can strike that balance, his leadership could be the difference between a rebuilding year and a breakout one. Don't let last year's departures fool you — Schlagle might be flying under the radar now, but they have the pieces to make noise. Depth could be their greatest asset, with a number of players capable of contributing in different ways. The development of those players — both mentally and physically — will determine just how high this team can climb. If the chemistry develops and the younger players grow into the moment, the Stallions could find themselves contending for a top-three finish in the league, something the program hasn't done in several years. It won't be easy, and the early schedule may present some growing pains, but Schlagle could be one of the league's most improved squads by season's end. Keep an eye on this team — they might surprise more than a few people.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Contender - Atchison</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>It's hard to envision any team in the Meadowlark League matching up with Washington, the heavy favorite and my pick to win the league this season. The talent, depth, and continuity they bring make them a clear front-runner. However, if there's one team capable of challenging them, it's Atchison. Despite graduating several key contributors from last season, Atchison returns a solid core of players with a mix of experience and upside. This group features a variety of skill sets and should bring a competitive edge to the court as they look to make their mark on the league. At the center of it all is senior forward Yogi Purdy — a strong, athletic presence in the paint who is expected to anchor both ends of the floor. Purdy showed flashes last season of being a force inside: scoring around the rim with physicality, protecting the paint on defense, and controlling the glass to close out possessions. This year, he'll be asked to take on an even larger role, and all signs point to him embracing that challenge. With his strength, motor, and two-way impact, Purdy should be a consistent presence and tone-setter for the team. Supporting Purdy is a promising group of juniors and seniors eager to step into expanded roles. Among them is [player_tooltip player_id='2245740' first='Kael' last='Williams'], a dynamic perimeter athlete with explosive leaping ability and a flair for finishing in transition. Williams thrives in an up-tempo game and brings energy on both ends, especially as a versatile defender who can guard on the ball and rotate to help at the rim. Javontae Kelley, a 6'8” interior player, gives Atchison valuable size and rim protection. His shot-blocking ability and rebounding presence should help stabilize the paint, and his length could prove disruptive to opposing offenses. On the offensive end, Kelley has shown flashes of being able to extend possessions by grabbing second-chance opportunities. Running the show will likely be Josiah Thompson, a poised guard tasked with taking on more ball-handling responsibilities. Thompson will be key in setting the tempo, initiating offense, and keeping the team organized under pressure. His decision-making and ability to manage the game will be crucial, especially in tighter matchups. Altogether, Atchison returns enough to not only contend for the No. 2 spot in the Meadowlark League but potentially push Washington if everything clicks. The big question heading into the winter is whether they can take that next step — and put legitimate pressure on the league's top dog.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Champion - Washington</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Washington enters the 2025–26 season as the clear favorite to win the Meadowlark League, and in my view, they're not just league contenders — they have a real case as one of the top teams in all of Kansas, particularly at the 5A level. With nearly all of their production returning from a strong campaign last year, Washington boasts both talent and experience, setting the stage for what could be a special season. The team is headlined by standout guard [player_tooltip player_id='2327569' first='Jamari' last='Williams'], who returns as the unquestioned leader and centerpiece of this loaded squad. A smooth and athletic left-handed guard, Williams is one of the most dynamic players in the state. His offensive game is incredibly versatile — he's a crafty ball-handler who regularly creates separation with sharp footwork and changes of pace. Williams is known for his high-flying finishes in transition, but he's equally dangerous in the half-court, where he can slash to the rim or pull up with a fluid, confident perimeter shot. His ability to score at all three levels makes him a nightmare for defenders and a matchup problem every night. What elevates Washington even further is the talented core surrounding Williams, giving the team exceptional depth and balance. EJ Berry, last year's Meadowlark League Newcomer of the Year, brings a complete offensive package to the floor. He can score from anywhere, create off the dribble, and has a natural feel for when to attack or distribute. His growth will be a major asset to this team's ceiling. [player_tooltip player_id='2623117' first='Savion' last='Stone'] adds physicality and athleticism on the wing. He plays downhill with power, embracing contact around the basket and consistently finishing through it. Stone also makes his mark defensively — he can guard multiple positions, rebound effectively, and block shots at a high rate, giving Washington a two-way weapon. [player_tooltip player_id='2619432' first='Jayden' last='Boggess'], another experienced returning guard, gives the Wildcats additional backcourt stability. He's capable of running the offense, making reads, and getting others involved, while still posing a scoring threat himself. His leadership and poise will be crucial in high-pressure moments. With this core four of Williams, Berry, Stone, and Boggess, plus a collection of capable role players who understand their responsibilities and play hard, Washington looks primed to dominate the league. But their goals won't stop there — this is a group with the talent, depth, and experience to make a legitimate run at a 5A state championship.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Top 5 All-Conference Team</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2327569' first='Jamari' last='Williams'] | 6'3" Guard | Washington</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Jaxon Davis | 6'2" Guard | Sumner</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Yogi Purdy | 6'4" Forward | Atchison</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>EJ Berry | 6'0" Guard | Washington</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2623117' first='Savion' last='Stone'] | 6'3" Wing | Washington</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Player of the Year - [player_tooltip player_id='2327569' first='Jamari' last='Williams'] | 6'3" Guard | Washington</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2327569' first='Jamari' last='Williams'] has firmly established himself as a household name in Kansas City-area basketball circles — and his star continues to rise heading into the 2025–26 season. Once known primarily for his explosive athleticism and tight handle that could ignite momentum-shifting runs, Williams has since transformed his game, body, and mindset into that of a complete, next-level guard. Now bigger, stronger, and more refined, Williams enters the season poised to take yet another leap — one that could draw serious attention from college coaches across the region. His ball-handling remains elite, but what separates him now is the maturity and purpose in how he uses it. Williams has a smooth, elusive handle that keeps defenders off balance, allowing him to break down opponents in isolation or create advantages within the flow of the offense. Around the rim, his finishing is exceptional. He shows hang-time, touch, and creativity in traffic, absorbing contact and adjusting mid-air. And when given space, he can still rise up and throw it down, electrifying crowds and shifting momentum in an instant. What's been most impressive in his development, though, is his continued growth as a shooter. Williams has made strides with his perimeter game, now showing a consistent and confident shooting stroke both off the catch and off the dribble. His ability to knock down threes or pull up in the midrange makes him extremely difficult to contain, especially when paired with his driving ability. This winter, Williams will be the unquestioned leader of a talented Washington team with championship aspirations. With his expanded skill set, physical growth, and leadership presence, he's not only set to guide the Wildcats on a deep run — he's also my pick for Meadowlark League Player of the Year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->