Final Four Picks: Kansas 5A Shows Familiar Faces

<h6 class="wp-block-heading">*Photo by Brian Turrel</h6>   At the 5A level, the postseason landscape is shaping up to be especially compelling, with a diverse mix of teams poised to converge in Wichita by season's end. This year's field will likely feature a combination of seasoned programs that have consistently performed at a high level in recent years, along with emerging teams that appear ready to elevate their play and establish themselves among the state's elite. That blend of experience and rising talent should create a dynamic and unpredictable path to the Final Four.   Once the top contenders reach Wichita, the storyline potential will be significant. Many of the matchups are likely to include athletes who will have opportunities to play at the collegiate level, bringing a heightened layer of intensity and star power to the floor. These players will be complemented by coaching staffs with long-standing track records of success -- veteran leaders who have guided teams through deep postseason runs before and understand how to navigate high-pressure environments.   Altogether, the combination of high-level talent, established coaching, and the natural drama of elimination basketball should produce a memorable and highly competitive 5A Final Four. Fans can expect tightly contested games, compelling narratives, and performances that help define the careers of both players and coaches alike.   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Piper</h3>   Despite graduating a significant amount of talent from last year's roster, Piper enters the new season with a deep, experienced, and highly capable core that should once again place them firmly in the conversation for another Final Four appearance. This is a program that has spent the past several seasons knocking on the door, and with the lineup they return, this may finally be the year the breakthrough happens. From top to bottom, Piper boasts one of the most complete and versatile rosters in the state — a group defined by balanced scoring, defensive versatility, and a level of internal competition that breeds excellence long before postseason play begins.   The team will be anchored by a senior trio featuring [player_tooltip player_id='2209781' first='DJ' last='Jackson'], Alamar Brooks, and [player_tooltip player_id='2211352' first='Cooper' last='Crawford'] — three players who not only bring substantial varsity experience, but who also embody the leadership and competitive drive necessary for a championship-caliber run. Their combined presence forms the foundation of a group built not merely to compete, but to win at the highest level.   Jackson remains the catalyst of everything Piper does offensively. As the team's primary ball-handler and initiator, he blends creativity, control, and scoring punch in a way few guards in the state can match. His tight handle and outstanding feel for the game allow him to manipulate defenses, read help rotations, and deliver the ball precisely where it needs to go. When attacking downhill, he uses exceptional body control to finish through contact, while his improved perimeter shooting forces defenders to guard him honestly on every possession. Though he's more known for his offense, Jackson's calmness and leadership are what truly elevate Piper — especially in late-game, high-pressure moments.   Brooks complements Jackson with a completely different but equally valuable skill set. Defined by athleticism, effort, and defensive intensity, he is the team's tone-setter on the perimeter. Brooks regularly draws the opponent's best scorer and uses quick feet, active hands, and relentless pressure to disrupt entire offensive schemes. His ability to turn steals into instant transition opportunities adds a dynamic element to Piper's attack, and his explosiveness in the open court often results in momentum-shifting plays. Offensively, he has continued to expand his game, showing improved confidence as a driver and shooter, making him a legitimate two-way threat.   Crawford, at 6'6”, gives Piper a versatile inside-out presence that few teams can match. His length and mobility make him a problem for defenders of all types — bigs struggle with his quickness on the perimeter, while smaller players have difficulty dealing with him on the block. He can space the floor with his shooting, finish through contact inside, and run the floor effectively in transition. Defensively, he contributes as a rebounder and rim protector, and his growth over the past year suggests he is primed to take yet another step forward. This season could easily become the year he emerges as one of the most complete forwards in the state.   What truly sets Piper apart from other contenders, though, is the depth that surrounds its star trio. Three names in particular — [player_tooltip player_id='2820761' first='Isaiah' last='Sayles'], Bernard Labat and Johnny Vogel — headline a supporting cast that is both capable and experienced enough to make a real impact in meaningful moments. Sayles brings steady interior production and a reliable presence on both ends of the floor, while Vogel and Labat offer competitiveness, energy, and the ability to change the flow of a game with their effort.   Beyond them, Piper's roster features several underclassmen and role players who have already demonstrated they can step into the rotation and contribute without any noticeable decline in performance. Whether it's providing timely scoring, securing key rebounds, defending multiple positions, or keeping the offense flowing with smart decision-making, the depth of this group gives Piper a level of versatility and lineup stability that few teams in the state can match. This strong supporting unit not only elevates the floor of the team but also raises its ceiling, reinforcing Piper's status as a legitimate championship threat.   With a blend of experienced leaders, high-level talent, defensive identity, and continuity built over several seasons, Piper enters the year with legitimate championship expectations. Anything short of a deep postseason run would feel like an underachievement for this group. And given their drive, focus, and the maturity of their returning core, it wouldn't be surprising at all if they are the team holding the trophy when March rolls around.   Early Season Tests   December 2nd at Seaman   January 10th vs. Oak Park   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Kapaun Mt. Carmel</h3>   Kapaun Mt. Carmel, much like Piper, has made the final four feel like a second home in recent seasons, delivering thrilling postseason performances and capturing multiple state championships along the way. This year should be no different. The Crusaders return a deep, experienced roster that appears fully reloaded and ready to contend once again. With so much proven talent back in the fold, the spotlight now shifts to returning standouts [player_tooltip player_id='2211346' first='Rocco' last='Keller'] and Blaise Dalian — two players poised to take on expanded roles and lead the charge.   Keller begins the season as one of the most refined and versatile forwards in Kansas. He scores effectively at all three levels, and his polish on the block is immediately noticeable. His advanced footwork, precise pivots, and variety of fakes allow him to create space consistently, and he finishes with soft touch using either hand. On top of that, he's a legitimate perimeter threat — his smooth, confident jumper from mid-range and beyond forces defenses to stretch out, making him a difficult assignment for any opposing post player.   Dalian brings a different but equally valuable skill set, highlighted by his high ceiling and rugged, two-way style. While he may not have ideal size for a forward, he more than makes up for it with his nonstop motor, toughness, and sharp instincts. He attacks the glass aggressively, finishes plays through contact, and finds scoring chances through smart off-ball movement. His outside shooting continues to progress as well, giving Kapaun another dependable floor–spacing option. With his blend of strength, efficiency, and relentless effort, Dalian stands out as one of the most essential all-around contributors in the league.   Behind that front-line duo is a deep, adaptable group led by [player_tooltip player_id='2395695' first='Jordan' last='Maingu'], Jude Porter, Reid Stuhlsatz, and Ryan Cary. Maingu returns as the defensive backbone of the team — long, mobile, and capable of switching across all positions. Offensively, he causes matchup issues with his ability to face up, attack off the dribble, and operate in a wide range of sets. Porter steps into the role of lead guard and brings strong decision-making, unselfishness, and disruptive defensive pressure. His pace, competitiveness, and instincts should make him a major contributor on both ends.   Stuhlsatz and Cary add reliable shooting and steady defensive discipline. They know their responsibilities, provide essential spacing, and maintain structure within the offensive system — all crucial elements as defenses key in on Keller and Dalian.   Perhaps the most intriguing addition, however, is freshman [player_tooltip player_id='2715470' first='Braylon' last='Jones'], already viewed as the premier prospect in Kansas' 2029 class. Despite his youth, he brings impressive size, skill, and versatility, giving him a real chance to contribute from day one. His potential is sky-high, and his progression throughout the season could become a major storyline.   With a mix of seasoned leaders, emerging upperclassmen, and high-end young talent, Kapaun is constructed not just to contend, but to dominate. The Crusaders possess the depth, discipline, and skill needed to push through the state and make another deep postseason run. Don't be surprised if they are once again in the championship conversation — fully intent on claiming another title.   Early Season Tests   December 12th at Wichita East   January 13th at Wichita Heights   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Bonner Springs</h3>   Bonner Springs enters the new season with nearly its entire rotation intact from last year's impressive run, putting the Braves firmly in the conversation for a Final Four berth in Wichita. All the pieces are aligned for this group to elevate its performance even further. With a mix of veteran experience, high-end athleticism, and a strong program identity, Bonner Springs possesses all the traits of a team capable of contending for a championship.   Guiding the Braves is point guard [player_tooltip player_id='2211348' first='Kelan' last='Gruver'], the emotional center of the roster. The son of head coach Drew Gruver, Kelan plays with remarkable poise and understanding of the game. He's essentially an extension of the coaching staff on the court — steady in pressure moments, deliberate in his reads, and consistently raising the level of play around him. Offensively, he operates with patience and purpose, balancing his scoring and facilitation with impressive efficiency. Though not always flashy, Gruver is a dependable and often undervalued scoring threat who can hit from the perimeter, beat defenders off closeouts, and finish through contact. He also contributes in subtle but important areas, such as crashing the offensive glass and generating extra possessions through effort and anticipation.   Defensively, Gruver separates himself even further. His positioning is consistently sound, whether rotating as a help-side defender, stepping into passing lanes, or sacrificing his body to draw charges. His awareness and competitiveness on that end establish the defensive tone for the entire team.   Supporting him are the dynamic Jones brothers — Jason and Jaiden — two standout athletes and impactful two-way contributors who add explosiveness and versatility to the lineup. Jason thrives as a slasher and downhill threat, excelling in transition and creating scoring opportunities off the dribble. His ability to attack the rim with power and fluidity forces defenses to react every time he touches the ball. He's an above-the-rim finisher, a dangerous cutter, and a constant threat for lob plays or high-percentage looks around the basket.   Jaiden, at 6'5", provides size, length, and vertical pop that anchor the Braves on both ends. He runs the floor hard, cleans the offensive glass, and brings much-needed rim protection on defense. His presence in the paint disrupts opposing drives, alters shots, and gives Bonner Springs reliable help-side coverage. Offensively, his activity and effort allow him to generate easy points in transition and off put-backs.   With Gruver's leadership at point guard, the athletic dominance and continued growth of Jason and [player_tooltip player_id='2820802' first='Jaiden' last='Jones'], and a dependable supporting cast surrounding them, Bonner Springs has every reason to believe it can make a serious push toward the final four this season.   Early Season Tests   December 5th at Ottawa   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Washington</h3>   Washington enters the 2025–26 season as one of the state's emerging contenders. While they aren't being mentioned often in Final Four projections, they possess all the characteristics of a team capable of getting there. In fact, they have a strong argument as one of the top overall squads in Kansas, especially within Class 5A. With nearly all of last year's production returning, Washington brings back a roster rich in both experience and high-level talent — a combination that sets the stage for a potentially breakout season.   The Wildcats are led by standout guard [player_tooltip player_id='2327569' first='Jamari' last='Williams'], the undeniable focal point of this talented unit. Williams, a smooth and athletic lefty, is among the most dynamic players in the state. Offensively, he's incredibly versatile: a crafty handler who uses sharp changes of pace, effective footwork, and strong instincts to generate separation. Known for his highlight finishes in transition, he's equally dangerous in the half court, where he can attack the rim or rise up confidently from the perimeter. With the ability to score from anywhere on the floor, he demands constant defensive attention and creates matchup issues for every opponent.   Washington's ceiling is elevated even further by the strength of the supporting cast around him. EJ Berry — last season's Meadowlark League Newcomer of the Year — provides a well-rounded offensive threat. He can score at all three levels, create for himself or others, and plays with an impressive natural feel. His continued improvement will be pivotal to Washington's success.   [player_tooltip player_id='2623117' first='Savion' last='Stone'] brings toughness, athleticism, and physicality on the wing. He excels at attacking downhill, finishing through contact, and imposing himself around the basket. Defensively, he's a versatile presence who can guard multiple spots, rebound at a high level, and protect the rim, giving the Wildcats a reliable two-way contributor.   Experienced guard [player_tooltip player_id='2619432' first='Jayden' last='Boggess'] adds stability and leadership in the backcourt. He's adept at initiating offense, making good decisions, and keeping the team organized, all while remaining a scoring threat in his own right. His composure will be invaluable during tight, high-stakes moments.   With this core of Williams, Berry, Stone, and Boggess — along with a group of role players who embrace their jobs and play with consistent effort — Washington appears ready to take a major step forward. This team has the depth, experience, and high-level talent to make a serious push toward a 5A state championship run.   Early Season Tests   December 9th at Olathe East   January 6th at Saint Thomas Aquinas   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Other Notable Teams - Topeka West, Maize South</h3>   I should also highlight two additional teams that, in my opinion, deserve consideration as potential contenders for a spot in the Final Four. While I ultimately expect them to fall just short, both Topeka West and Maize South appear poised to field competitive, well-rounded squads.   Topeka West returns a strong core led by standout players [player_tooltip player_id='2209783' first='Keimani' last='Paul'] and Malakyah Duncan, whose experience and production should keep the team firmly in the playoff conversation. Meanwhile, Maize South brings back its three primary contributors -- Cy Stucky, [player_tooltip player_id='2816224' first='Jalen' last='Batiste'], and Paxton Scott -- each of whom played a significant role in the program's success last season. With this level of returning talent, both teams have the potential to exceed expectations and make a legitimate push toward the final stages of the postseason.