Early Wichita Area Games That Will Tell Us the Most - Part 2

*Photo by Kelly Ross   I'm continuing to take a deeper dive into several intriguing Wichita-area matchups on tap for this winter, each carrying its own set of storylines and potential surprises. These early contests could introduce new breakout players who step into expanded roles, reveal rising teams ready to make a leap, and showcase returning standouts eager to build on last season's success.   From contrasting styles of play to fresh coaching dynamics and revamped rosters, these games offer more than just early-season excitement — they provide valuable insight into how the landscape of Wichita-area basketball might take shape.   No matter which matchup catches your eye, fans should buckle up for an action-packed opening stretch. The first few weeks of the season are shaping up to deliver high-energy atmospheres, compelling talent, and a preview of the teams poised to make noise as the year unfolds.   December 4th   Newton vs. Blue Valley Northwest (Neutral Site)   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>This early-season matchup pairs two programs that rarely cross paths, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to the contest. The fact that it will be played on a neutral floor only heightens the interest, eliminating any home-court advantage and creating a true test of preparation, poise, and execution for both sides. Newton and Blue Valley Northwest each return experienced cores, giving this game the feel of a high-level December showdown rather than a typical early-season tune-up. Newton will rely heavily on the perimeter duo of [player_tooltip player_id='2211344' first='Cole' last='Dillon'] and [player_tooltip player_id='2394246' first='Maddox' last='Williams'], two players capable of stretching the floor, creating offense, and dictating the game's pace. On the other side, Blue Valley Northwest will look to [player_tooltip player_id='1530221' first='Ayden' last='McGibboney'] to anchor their attack. His ability to score, facilitate, and lead makes him the key piece for the Huskies.With proven talent on both sides and a neutral environment leveling the playing field, this matchup has all the makings of a competitive, revealing early-season battle. It's the kind of game that can shape confidence and provide early insight into each team's potential.</li> </ul>   December 5th   Olpe at St. Marys   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>It wouldn't be a true opening week of Kansas basketball without some small-school action right in the heart of the state, and this matchup between Olpe and St. Marys delivers just that. Both programs enter the season with high hopes, leaning on established leaders who are poised to carry significant responsibility throughout the year. Olpe will look to [player_tooltip player_id='2488757' first='Brecken' last='McGuire'] to run the show. His ability to control tempo, make smart decisions, and create scoring opportunities will be essential for the Eagles as they aim to establish early momentum. St. Marys counters with Ben DeVader, their primary offensive option and a player capable of putting pressure on opposing defenses in a variety of ways.This early-season clash should reveal plenty about each team's readiness, identity, and potential. Expect a competitive game that offers valuable insight into how both programs might stack up as the season unfolds. </li> </ul>   December 6th   Campus at Salina South   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>These two programs enter the season in very different phases of roster development and overall progression. Campus is still in the process of building around its young but highly talented core, a group that showed flashes last year and now has the chance to take a meaningful leap. Salina South, meanwhile, will rely on a more experienced, senior-heavy lineup that is better equipped to handle the physical and mental demands of early-season competition. For Campus, the ceiling will largely depend on the growth of their sophomore backcourt duo, [player_tooltip player_id='2829765' first='Ja'Myias' last='Caldwell'] and [player_tooltip player_id='2815780' first='Kaden' last='Williams']. Both young point guards gained valuable experience a season ago, and if they can take another developmental step, Campus has the potential to be significantly more competitive. Their ability to control the pace, limit turnovers, and create opportunities for teammates will be key indicators of the team's progression.Salina South counters with a veteran trio in Sawyer Walker, Gavin Devoe, and Kobie Henly -- a three-pronged attack capable of scoring in multiple ways and providing steady leadership. Their experience and versatility should give the Cougars an early advantage as they look to establish themselves as a tough, well-rounded squad. With Campus developing rising stars and Salina South leaning on proven seniors, this matchup offers an intriguing contrast in styles, timelines, and team identity — one that should reveal a great deal about both programs' trajectories for the season</li> </ul>   December 9th   Independence at Collegiate   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>One of the biggest early-season questions for Collegiate is whether they can put all their talent together quickly and establish a strong identity from the start. This matchup serves as an excellent barometer, offering a clear look at how well their pieces fit, how effectively they execute, and how ready they are to live up to the high expectations surrounding the program. Independence, meanwhile, can use this game as a valuable measuring stick of their own. Facing one of the more highly regarded teams in Kansas gives them a chance to see how competitive they can be against elite-level talent and where they may need to adjust as the season progresses. Collegiate's trio of [player_tooltip player_id='1541007' first='Amare' last='(AJ) Batiste'], [player_tooltip player_id='2209780' first='Sebastian' last='Hines-Turner'], and [player_tooltip player_id='2205716' first='Kamari' last='Jennings'] presents a formidable challenge. Their combined athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive presence will be difficult for Kellen Lanning and the rest of the Independence squad to match. If the Spartan stars play to their potential and their supporting cast settles in early, this game could offer a strong preview of what the program is capable of this winter. For both teams, this early clash should reveal plenty about chemistry, competitiveness, and long-term potential.</li> </ul>   Abilene at Southeast of Saline   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Southeast of Saline has several compelling matchups lined up in the early part of the season, and their game against Abilene stands out as one of the most intriguing. This contest sets the stage for a marquee individual battle between [player_tooltip player_id='2796552' first='Kolt' last='Becker'] and [player_tooltip player_id='2403142' first='Gannon' last='Jacobson'] — two players poised for breakout seasons and ready to showcase their full skill sets right from the opening tip. Both Becker and Jacobson are expected to take on major roles for their teams, and there's no better way to launch a big year than by performing in a high-energy, early-season showdown. With two talented leaders going head-to-head and both programs looking to establish momentum, this matchup has all the makings of a competitive and entertaining opening-week battle.</li> </ul>

*Photo by Kelly Ross