Preview: William Jewell Holiday Classic - Patterson Division

*Photo by William Jewell College Athletics   As coverage of the William Jewell Holiday Classic continues, the focus now shifts to the Patterson Division and the teams and players looking to use this stage as momentum heading into the second half of the season. This division features a strong mix of competitive programs and individual talent, making it a key part of the event with plenty at stake in the opening round.   In this breakdown, I'll take a closer look at the first-round matchups, analyze how the bracket could unfold, and make predictions for both the runner-up and eventual division champion. I'll also unveil my All-Patterson Division team, highlighting the top ten players who are poised to make the biggest impact throughout the tournament.   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">First Round Matchups</h3>   Belton vs. Center - December 27th, 4:30 PM   Liberty North vs. Lincoln Prep - December 27th, 6:00 PM   Oak Park vs. Fort Osage - December 27th, 7:30 PM   St. Michael the Archangel vs. Grandview - December 27th, 9:00 PM   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Runner-Up</h3>   Center   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Champion</h3>   Oak Park   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">All-Division Team</h3>   [player_tooltip player_id='1850445' first='Adam' last='Tanner'] | 5'10" Guard | Senior | Oak Park   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>There's little doubt that Tanner will be one of the most active and impactful players at the entire event. He does so much for Oak Park beyond the box score, bringing elite intangibles and a high basketball IQ that make him feel like an extension of the coaching staff on the floor. His understanding of the game, communication, and leadership consistently elevate those around him. Defensively, he is everywhere. His ball pressure creates constant disruption, and his ability to anticipate actions allows him to play a step ahead of offensive players, forcing mistakes and speeding teams up. Offensively, his game has continued to evolve. He reads defenses well, understands when to assert himself as a scorer, and knows when to shift into a facilitating role to keep the offense flowing. He can knock down shots from deep, operate comfortably in the in-between areas, and finish around the basket without hesitation or fear. That combination of effort, intelligence, and expanding skill set makes him a player to watch for fans and next-level coaches.</li> </ul>   [player_tooltip player_id='1850444' first='Josh' last='Kori'] | 6'4" Wing | Senior | Oak Park   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Another key piece for Oak Park, expect him to serve as the team's primary offensive leader throughout the event. He plays with a high level of energy and aggressiveness, consistently attacking the game and putting pressure on the defense. His athleticism shows up in his ability to finish above the rim, while his skill level allows him to score from multiple areas on the floor, including the mid-range and beyond the arc. Kori's size and athletic ability also translate on the defensive end, where he is capable of guarding all five positions. That versatility gives Oak Park flexibility in its defensive schemes and lets them match up in a variety of ways. With his two-way impact and dynamic style of play, he should attract significant attention from college coaches during the showcase if he continues to bring the same level of intensity and production each day.</li> </ul>   [player_tooltip player_id='1850452' first='Landon' last='Van Pelt'] | 6'8" Forward | Senior | Oak Park   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Van Pelt has emerged as one of the area's most intriguing rising big-man prospects, and it's clear he has taken a significant step forward recently. One of the first things that stands out is the change in his body, which has translated directly to his improved level of play. That added strength and physical development have allowed him to compete with confidence and consistency against high-level competition early in the season. On the floor, Van Pelt has shown the ability to score both inside and out, while also demonstrating a strong understanding of how defenses are trying to guard him. He consistently establishes deep post position and can finish over either shoulder with touch and power. At the same time, he has expanded his offensive range, stepping out to knock down shots and stretch opposing defenses. Defensively, his strength and presence make him a reliable anchor in the paint, and he has become a dependable rebounder on both ends. If he carries this level of play into Liberty, it would not be surprising to see him draw serious interest and potentially earn next-level offers.</li> </ul>   Ra'Heym Ansley | 6'3" Guard | Senior | Center   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Ansley enters the William Jewell Holiday Classic coming off an impressive performance at the Family First Hoops Classic at Staley, where he looked every bit the part of an athletic scoring guard with a complete offensive toolbox. His length and suddenness as a ball handler make him especially difficult to contain, as defenders often struggle to get a clean read on his movements or keep him in front. That unpredictability, paired with his ability to knock down shots, only amplifies the challenge he presents on the offensive end. Beyond his scoring, Ansley brings real two-way value. Defensively, his instincts and high motor allow him to apply constant pressure, disrupt opposing ball handlers, and set the tone for Center on that end of the floor. He frequently creates turnovers and speeds teams up, turning defense into offense. With his combination of athleticism, skill, and competitive edge, Ansley is positioned to make another strong statement in Liberty.</li> </ul>   [player_tooltip player_id='2824617' first='Israel' last='Johnigan'] | 6'5" Forward | Sophomore | Center   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Johnigan will serve as the anchor for Center, excelling as an interior scorer, rebounder, and defender. His impressive length allows him to play over opponents and take over games, particularly when favorable mismatches arise. Even early in his career, he has delivered some standout performances, but the next key step for him will be developing consistency — both in his production and his overall impact on a game-to-game basis. As Johnigan continues to grow, gain confidence, and refine his skills, he has the potential to become a recognized and formidable presence in the years ahead. Pairing him with Ansley gives the team a powerful inside-out combination that will challenge opponents on both ends of the floor, creating a balanced and difficult-to-defend attack.</li> </ul>   James Frazier | 6'0" Guard | Senior | Grandview   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>If defense is what you're looking for, Frazier stands out immediately. He takes immense pride on that end of the floor and is often tasked with guarding the opposing team's top offensive threat. His quickness and ability to stay in front of the ball are impressive, giving him the confidence to take calculated risks and generate steals. With constantly active hands, he applies steady pressure and consistently makes ball handlers uncomfortable. Complementing his defensive impact is a steadily developing offensive game. Frazier has shown continued improvement as a perimeter shooter and pairs that with a quick first step that allows him to beat defenders off the dribble and finish at the rim. With his relentless motor and two-way contributions, he's the type of player who consistently affects the flow of the game and can be counted on to make an impact on both ends of the floor.</li> </ul>   Eli Strother | 6'2" Guard | Senior | Grandview   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Strother is another name gaining traction around the Kansas City area after turning in several strong early-season performances for Grandview. He pairs well with Frazier on the perimeter, giving the team an active and lengthy duo that can impact the game on both ends. Strother plays with confidence and a noticeable edge, often carrying a chip on his shoulder that fuels his approach. Offensively, he is aggressive and unafraid to get shots up, capable of catching fire quickly once he sees a few go down. His shooting from the perimeter and mid-range are clear strengths, and he is especially dangerous when the game opens up. Transition play is where he is at his best, as he looks to push the pace, run the floor, and turn end-to-end action into scoring opportunities. Expect Strother to be a primary offensive option for Grandview and a major factor in setting the tempo throughout the event.</li> </ul>   [player_tooltip player_id='2822915' first='Jayce' last='Maiden'] | 6'4" Guard | Sophomore | Belton   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Arguably one of the top young talents in the Patterson Division, Maiden has established himself as a highly efficient offensive player, consistently posting impressive shooting percentages this season. He takes on a significant role for Belton and fully embraces the responsibility, demonstrating both skill and maturity on the court. Standing at a legitimate 6'4", Maiden is still growing into his frame, which gives him a natural advantage both above the rim and in finishing around defenders with his length and dynamic ability. In addition to his athleticism, Maiden has proven to be a reliable three-point shooter this season, making him a challenging player for opponents to guard. His impact doesn't stop on the perimeter; he also leads Belton in rebounding, which not only strengthens his team defensively but also creates opportunities to push the pace, often starting fast breaks with a strong dribble out of the paint. This upcoming competition should provide an excellent opportunity for Jayce to test himself against other skilled players and strong teams, offering a clear look at where he truly stands and how much further he can develop.</li> </ul>   [player_tooltip player_id='1850448' first='Phillip' last='Howard'] | 6'3" Wing | Senior | St. Michael the Archangel   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Howard is one of the most complete players in the metro area and has already secured his commitment to Rockhurst for next season. His combination of size and mobility on the wing gives him a significant advantage, allowing him to impact the game in a variety of ways. He has become the driving force behind a St. Michael's team that continues to trend upward and show steady improvement. Offensively, Howard is capable of scoring in bunches, whether he's operating inside the arc or stretching the floor from the perimeter. His influence extends well beyond scoring, as he consistently makes plays on the glass, facilitates for teammates with strong passing instincts, and brings a dynamic presence on the defensive end. With his well-rounded skill set and competitive approach, it wouldn't be surprising to see Howard post some impressive stat lines as the level of competition increases throughout the event.</li> </ul>   Damon Humphrey | 6'3" Wing | Junior | Lincoln Prep   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Humphrey may be one of the most intriguing prospects to watch in Liberty this weekend, thanks to his unique blend of strength, quick-twitch athleticism, and explosiveness. He has established himself as Lincoln Prep's go-to player this season, consistently impacting the game in a variety of ways. His physical frame allows him to score through contact in the paint, finishing against multiple defenders, while his athleticism gives him the versatility to step out on the perimeter as both a driver and a shooter. That combination of power and skill makes him a difficult matchup and gives his offensive game multiple dimensions. With the stage set in Liberty, Humphrey has an opportunity to put together a big weekend and introduce himself to fans who may not yet be familiar with his game. If he continues on his current trajectory, he'll show that he is a rapidly developing prospect in the metro area with his best basketball still ahead of him.</li> </ul>

*Photo by William Jewell College Athletics