Kansas Preview: Wide-Open AVCTL II Race Looms

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League II is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and unpredictable races in the state this season. With no clear-cut favorite, multiple teams appear capable of making a run at the league title. In this comprehensive preview, I look deep into the AVCTL II — highlighting a potential sleeper team, breaking down the top contenders, and revealing my pick to win the conference. I also unveil my Preseason All-Conference “Top 5” selections and share my projection for the 2025–26 Player of the Year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Sleeper - Eisenhower</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Eisenhower enters the 2025–2026 season facing a significant transition, as they lose their primary scoring threat with the departure of standout guard Pierce Blue. Despite that setback, the team retains a promising foundation, led by senior forward [player_tooltip player_id='2414463' first='Romari' last='Howard'] -- a player poised for a breakout year. Howard is coming off a strong junior campaign in which he consistently influenced games on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he was highly efficient, showcasing the ability to finish at the rim with either hand, often powering through contact with impressive body control. His interior scoring touch and physicality make him a threat near the basket. In addition to his offensive skills, Howard brings a versatile defensive presence thanks to his athleticism, size and length. He's capable of guarding multiple positions, disrupting passing lanes, and contributing as a shot-blocker and rebounder. His ability to anchor the team on both ends of the court will be critical to how Eisenhower competes. Beyond Howard, however, the roster presents a few uncertainties. Senior guard [player_tooltip player_id='1682490' first='Owen' last='Stanberry'] returns and is expected to be a steady contributor on the perimeter. Known for his reliable shooting and court awareness, Stanberry will likely be called upon to take on a larger scoring and leadership role. That said, the supporting cast remains a question mark. The team will need other role players to step up and fill the gaps left by Blue's absence. If Eisenhower can solidify its rotation and get increased production from both Howard and Stanberry, they have the potential to exceed expectations and be a tough out in league play. With strong leadership and internal development, this could be a sleeper team to watch.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Contenders - Salina Central, Andover</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If Salina Central gets Kaden Snyder back in the lineup this winter, they have the potential to be a serious contender throughout the league season. Snyder brings a rare combination of size and athleticism that is not often seen at any level of high school basketball in the state. His physical attributes alone give the Mustangs a significant edge, but it's his impact on both ends of the court that truly sets him apart. Last season, Snyder consistently dominated games with his interior presence. Offensively, he excelled at scoring around the basket, using his strength and footwork to finish through contact, while also proving to be an elite rebounder — often grabbing boards well outside his immediate area. His motor and timing on the glass made him a difficult matchup for any opponent. In addition to his inside game, Snyder has demonstrated the ability to step outside and knock down perimeter shots when called upon, showing that he's not just a traditional post player, but a versatile offensive weapon. Defensively, Snyder's impact is just as pronounced. His length and quick hands make him a disruptive presence in the paint, where he regularly blocks or alters shots and deters opponents from attacking the rim. His shot-blocking instincts force many teams to settle for perimeter jumpers, changing the dynamic of the game without him even needing to touch the ball on offense. Beyond Snyder, Salina Central also returns a promising young talent in [player_tooltip player_id='2820908' first='Grant' last='Ostmeyer']. As a freshman, Ostmeyer logged significant varsity minutes and made his presence felt with his toughness, scoring ability, and overall versatility. His development and experience gained last season could prove crucial in supporting Snyder and giving the Mustangs a more well-rounded attack. If all the pieces come together — particularly with Snyder in the mix — Salina Central looks poised to elevate their status within the league. With their mix of veteran leadership, young talent, and size inside, they have the tools to make a strong push toward the top tier and contend for a league title this winter.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2025–26 season marks a new chapter for Andover, as the Trojans move on from the standout career of Joshua Kim, a player whose leadership and production defined the program in recent years. While his absence certainly leaves a void, there's reason to believe Andover will remain highly competitive, with key players ready to step into expanded roles and continue the program's winning tradition. Leading the way will be [player_tooltip player_id='2635662' first='Walker' last='McClellan'], a versatile and intelligent wing who's ready to take on the mantle of team leader. McClellan brings a polished, well-rounded game and a high basketball IQ. Offensively, he can knock down shots from deep with consistency, and he's just as effective inside — using his frame, touch, and physicality to score around the rim. He's also a savvy screener, understanding how to pop or roll into space to create advantage situations for his teammates. On the glass, McClellan is relentless, often leading the team in rebounding through sheer effort and smart positioning. While McClellan will be the centerpiece, he won't have to carry the load alone. Two rising players — [player_tooltip player_id='2927405' first='Drew' last='Hutchinson'] and Brooks Brown — are poised to step into key roles as secondary scorers and impact contributors. At 6'7”, Hutchinson will anchor the interior for Andover. He's a developing offensive threat who can score with either hand around the basket and finish above the rim when given space. Hutchinson also excels in pick-and-roll situations as a screen setter and rim runner, and his presence on the boards will be crucial. Perhaps most importantly, he projects to be a defensive anchor, using his size and timing to block and alter shots and control the paint. Brooks Brown, meanwhile, brings a sharpshooting presence on the perimeter. His ability to stretch defenses from three-point range will be vital in spacing the floor for McClellan and Hutchinson to operate. Brown also brings defensive intensity, playing with toughness and energy on that end of the floor. With McClellan's leadership, Hutchinson's interior presence, and Brown's shooting and effort, Andover is well-positioned to remain a factor in the AVCTL II title race. Though the post-Kim era presents new challenges, the Trojans have the talent, depth, and structure to contend with the league's best once again.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Champion - Newton</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Newton enters this season as my pick to win the Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League II, and it's easy to see why. The Railers return two of their top three scorers, including the ultra-talented [player_tooltip player_id='2211344' first='Cole' last='Dillon'], who appears poised for an even bigger season. With a combination of star power in the backcourt, experience, and offensive versatility, Newton has the foundation in place to separate itself from the pack. [player_tooltip player_id='2211344' first='Cole' last='Dillon'] headlines the returning core and is expected to take on an even larger role — both as a scorer and facilitator. That's saying something, considering Dillon already had multiple eye-popping performances last season where he filled up the box score. He plays with confidence and control, especially on the offensive end. Dillon is a highly efficient perimeter shooter with deep range, but he's also comfortable operating in the mid-range, using crafty footwork and a tight handle to create space for clean looks. As a ball-handler, he can break down defenders, get into the paint, and either finish with touch or set up teammates with precision passing. Joining him in the backcourt is [player_tooltip player_id='2394246' first='Maddox' last='Williams'], who should play a key role as both a primary ball-handler and secondary scoring option. Williams has a strong feel for the game and is capable of controlling tempo, reading defenses, and making the right reads out of ball screens and drive-and-kick situations. While he can hit the three, his strength lies in penetration and finishing around the rim, where he shows a nice mix of creativity and body control. His presence will also allow Dillon to play off the ball at times, keeping defenses off balance. While Newton will need a few role players to step up and fill key spots, their dynamic guard duo of Dillon and Williams gives them a clear edge over the rest of the league. Few teams can match that combination of shot-making, playmaking, and basketball IQ, especially from two players who are already battle-tested in high-level games. If they stay healthy and find production from their supporting cast, Newton should have the inside track to an AVCTL II title — and possibly more as the postseason approaches.</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>Kaden Snyder | 6'6" Forward | Salina South</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2211344' first='Cole' last='Dillon'] | 6'3" Guard | Newton</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2414463' first='Romari' last='Howard'] | 6'4" Forward | Eisenhower</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2635662' first='Walker' last='McClellan'] | 6'4" Wing | Andover</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Erv Manuel-Phillips | 6'2" Wing | Goddard</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Player of the Year - [player_tooltip player_id='2211344' first='Cole' last='Dillon'] | 6'3" Guard | Newton</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kaden Snyder, a standout football recruit with next-level talent, remains a question mark for the basketball season — and his decision could have major implications for the league landscape. If he does suit up this winter, Snyder and [player_tooltip player_id='2211344' first='Cole' last='Dillon'] would be my top two choices for Player of the Year in AVCTL II. However, with uncertainty surrounding Snyder's availability, I'm giving the edge to [player_tooltip player_id='2211344' first='Cole' last='Dillon']. Dillon is set to lead Newton, my pick to win the league, and he brings a deep offensive arsenal that few in the state can match. He can stretch the floor with long-range shooting, attack defenders off the dribble, and create space in the mid-range — all while playing with confidence and polish. His versatility as a scorer and playmaker will be on full display, and with Newton expected to be at the top of the standings, Dillon is in a perfect position to produce huge performances all season long. Simply put, his skill set is unmatched in the league, and that's why he's my preseason choice for AVCTL II Player of the Year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->