Kansas Preview: Pioneer League Title There for the Taking

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Pioneer League is set for a shake-up in 2025–2026. With a deep pool of talent and several strong programs in the mix, multiple teams believe they have a legitimate shot at the league title. This season promises competitive matchups, breakout stars, and plenty of surprises. In this preview, I'll cover everything you need to know — from my sleeper pick and projected contenders to the team I believe will ultimately claim the championship. I'll also reveal my "Top 5" All-Pioneer Team and announce my pick for Pioneer League Player of the Year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Sleeper - Santa Fe Trail</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Santa Fe Trail is a potential sleeper in the Pioneer League — a team that could surprise opponents and make a serious push up the standings. With the majority of last year's roster returning, this is a group that brings valuable experience, chemistry, and hunger to prove they belong among the league's best. At the center of it all is sophomore standout Rigley Sleichter, who is poised to take a major leap in his second varsity season. After posting some eye-opening performances as a freshman, Sleichter now steps into a leadership role — both as the team's primary scoring option and floor general. He plays with rare poise for his age, showing strong decision-making and an advanced feel for the game. Offensively, he's a multi-level scorer who can get downhill, finish through contact, or knock down shots from the perimeter. In transition, he uses his body well to create angles and either finish or find teammates in stride. As he continues to grow physically and mentally, Sleichter could quickly establish himself as one of the top young guards in the league. Supporting Sleichter is fellow guard Layton Lind, a returning upperclassman who brings toughness, scoring ability, and disruptive defense to the backcourt. Lind is a high-energy player who thrives on both ends — capable of hitting timely shots while also applying relentless pressure defensively. His quick hands and instincts allow him to jump passing lanes and blow up opposing offensive sets, creating fast-break opportunities for his team. Xavier Davis returns as a dependable outside shooting threat, spacing the floor and providing a consistent scoring option from deep. His ability to hit perimeter shots will be key to opening up driving lanes for Sleichter and Lind. Trevon Brooks adds an important layer of grit and hustle to the rotation. A versatile and physical presence, Brooks brings a “do whatever it takes” mentality — whether it's defending multiple positions, diving for loose balls, battling on the boards, or making the extra effort play. With a solid mix of emerging young talent and battle-tested returners, Santa Fe Trail is well-positioned to test some of the league's top teams throughout the season. They may not enter every game as favorites, but this is a group capable of pulling off upsets and shaking up the standings. If their core continues to grow and play with confidence, don't be surprised if they make a strong push late into the season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Contenders - Osawatomie, Anderson County</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Osawatomie enters the 2025–2026 season looking to remain competitive in the Pioneer League, despite losing some key contributors from last year's roster. Fortunately, the return of [player_tooltip player_id='1957156' first='Jasper' last='Sallee'] — arguably the top overall player in the league — gives the Trojans a dynamic centerpiece to build around. Sallee brings experience, toughness, and a versatile skill set that allows him to take over games in multiple ways. Offensively, he's a nightmare for defenders thanks to his ability to both shoot from the perimeter and attack the basket with control and craft. His footwork, finishing ability with either hand, and deep shooting range make him an elite scoring threat. Beyond his offensive production, Sallee is also a dominant force on the glass. His rebounding instincts, physicality, and relentless motor should put him at or near the top of the league in boards, giving Osawatomie valuable second-chance opportunities and helping them control the tempo of games. Teaming up with Sallee in the frontcourt is Jaxon Stevenson, a 6'7" forward with the potential to be a key difference-maker on both ends of the floor. Stevenson is expected to take a significant step forward this season as he grows into a larger role. His size and length make him a natural rim protector and paint presence, while his touch around the basket gives Osawatomie a reliable option for interior scoring. If he can continue to develop his confidence and consistency, Stevenson will become a strong complement to Sallee and provide much-needed balance to the Trojans' attack. Outside of this talented duo, Osawatomie will need contributions from its supporting cast — particularly from developing role players who can provide scoring, defense, and energy in key moments. The early part of the season will likely see Sallee carrying a heavy load, but for the Trojans to stay in the mix with the league's top-tier teams, depth will need to emerge and solidify as the season progresses. Overall, Osawatomie has a strong foundation with two high-level forwards in Sallee and Stevenson. If the supporting cast can step up and provide consistent help, the Trojans have the potential to surprise teams and remain a tough matchup throughout the year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Anderson County enters the campaign as a serious contender in the Pioneer League and may be the strongest threat to challenge Burlington for the league title. Although the Bulldogs lose a key piece in 6'6" standout Noah Porter, the program returns a confident and capable core led by three experienced players ready to take the next step. Leading the charge is Brayden Wheat, a skilled and high-IQ guard who is expected to emerge as one of the top playmakers in the league. Wheat is a prolific shooter with deep range and the ability to stretch defenses well beyond the three-point line. His shooting gravity alone opens up driving lanes for himself and his teammates, but he's also dangerous off the dribble — able to create his own shot, break down defenders, and find open teammates off penetration. With the ball in his hands frequently, Wheat will serve as the engine of the Bulldogs' offense. He's poised to take a major leap in production this season and could improve in virtually every statistical category. Joining Wheat in the backcourt is Brylan Sommer, a returning guard who brings scoring versatility and composure. Sommer is expected to be the team's second scoring option and is a proven perimeter threat, entering the season as the Bulldogs' top returning three-point shooter. His ability to knock down shots and score in rhythm will be key to spacing the floor and keeping opposing defenses honest. In the frontcourt, Aidan Steele returns as a physical and dependable presence. Steele will be relied upon for scoring inside the arc and, perhaps more importantly, for anchoring the Bulldogs' efforts on the glass. His energy and effort rebounding on both ends of the floor will play a major role in Anderson County's ability to control the tempo and win possession battles. In addition to this experienced trio, the Bulldogs also bring back a promising group of younger players who will be expected to step into larger roles this season. Their development will be crucial in rounding out the rotation and providing the depth needed to compete deep into the season. With a well-balanced core, strong perimeter shooting, and emerging interior play, Anderson County has the pieces to contend for the league title and stay in the race well into February. If the supporting cast can rise to the occasion, this is a team with both the talent and experience to make serious noise come postseason time.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Champion - Burlington</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Despite graduating a significant portion of production from last year's highly talented roster, Burlington is poised to remain one of the top teams in the state — thanks to a strong program culture and a promising mix of returning veterans and rising young talent. While the Pioneer League race may be more competitive this season, Burlington still enters 2025–2026 as the team to beat. At the heart of Burlington's success will be a deep and experienced core, led by Maddux Cheever, [player_tooltip player_id='2948828' first='Gaige' last='Navarro'], Troy Over, Mason Collins, and Alex Mautz. This group brings a strong blend of leadership, skill, and two-way ability that gives Burlington a balanced and dangerous lineup. Maddux Cheever is the unquestioned leader and catalyst of the team. A versatile wing with a nonstop motor, Cheever is the type of player who makes an impact in every phase of the game. Offensively, he's a legitimate three-level scorer — capable of knocking down shots from beyond the arc, creating off the bounce, and making high-level reads to find open teammates. His passing is precise and unselfish, often putting teammates in ideal scoring positions. On the defensive end, Cheever's intensity stands out. He's a physical on-ball defender who takes pride in locking down matchups. Off the ball, he consistently disrupts opposing offenses by denying passing lanes, forcing turnovers, and diving for loose balls. His energy and leadership will be the engine that drives Burlington this season. The potential X-factor, however, could be [player_tooltip player_id='2948828' first='Gaige' last='Navarro'], a young forward with one of the highest upsides in the state. Navarro brings an impressive combination of size, length, and developing skill that gives Burlington a true frontcourt presence. He can impact the game as a rebounder and rim protector, while also providing interior scoring and the ability to step out and stretch the floor. Navarro has soft touch around the basket, a promising midrange game, and even flashes floaters and face-up skills. If he plays with consistent energy on the glass and on defense, Navarro could emerge as a breakout star and one of the top players in the Pioneer League. Troy Over, Mason Collins, and Alex Mautz round out Burlington's core, bringing valuable experience and stability. All three contribute with dependable scoring, smart decision-making, and disciplined team defense. Their presence gives Burlington rare depth and flexibility on both ends of the court. All things considered, Burlington enters the 2025–2026 season as a well-rounded, battle-tested group with high expectations. Even with last year's departures, they remain one of the most dangerous teams in the region. Don't be surprised if they not only contend for another Pioneer League title, but also make a deep push toward the state tournament once again.</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>Maddux Cheever | 6'3" Wing | Burlington</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='1957156' first='Jasper' last='Sallee'] | 6'4" Wing | Osawatomie</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Rigley Sleichter | 5'9" Guard | Santa Fe Trail</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Brayden Wheat | 5'10" Guard | Anderson County</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2948828' first='Gaige' last='Navarro'] | 6'5" Forward | Burlington</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Player of the Year - [player_tooltip player_id='1957156' first='Jasper' last='Sallee'] | 6'4" Wing | Osawatomie</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1957156' first='Jasper' last='Sallee'] is one of the most underrated high school basketball players in the state of Kansas. Possessing a solid combination of size, strength, and athleticism, Sallee has the tools to impact games in multiple ways on both ends of the floor. What sets him apart is his unique blend of physicality and skill, which allows him to contribute across virtually every aspect of the game. Offensively, Sallee demonstrates excellent ball-handling skills for a player of his size. He's comfortable pushing the ball in transition and shows a strong understanding of how to read defenses, especially in open-court situations. His court vision is a standout trait — he consistently makes smart decisions and finds teammates in positions where they can be most effective, often creating scoring opportunities out of seemingly broken plays. Sallee's footwork when attacking off the dribble is particularly advanced. He utilizes a variety of spins, pivots, and hesitations to maneuver around defenders, maintaining balance and control in tight spaces. His ability to finish with either hand at the rim makes him a difficult matchup for defenders, especially in isolation situations. As a shooter, Sallee is also highly capable. He possesses a high release point and gets good elevation on his jump shot, allowing him to shoot effectively over contests. He's a threat both off the dribble and in catch-and-shoot situations. His range extends well beyond the three-point line, which helps space the floor and forces opposing bigs to step out and guard him — creating additional driving lanes for his teammates. Beyond scoring, Sallee is a smart and underrated passer. He reads help defenses well and understands how to exploit mismatches and advantage situations. He's unselfish with the ball and routinely delivers passes that lead directly to scores. On the boards, Sallee is relentless. He rebounds well on both ends of the floor, often initiating fast breaks with defensive rebounds or creating second-chance points on the offensive glass. His physicality, timing, and motor make him a consistent force around the basket. Overall, Sallee is a versatile and impactful player who influences the game in a number of ways. As he continues to develop and elevate his play, it's likely that he'll take another major leap forward this season — an impressive feat considering his already high level of performance. Expect him to post big numbers this winter and be a driving force in helping his team stay competitive night in and night out.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->