Kansas Preview: Greater Wichita Athletic League Heating Up

<p>I turn my focus to the always-competitive Greater Wichita Athletic League, offering in-depth team predictions. I spotlight a couple of sleeper teams, break down the top contenders, reveal my pick to win the conference, unveil my “Top 5” All-Conference selections, and project this season's Player of the Year.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Sleepers – Wichita Northwest, Wichita South</em></h3>   <p>Wichita Northwest is coming off a strong 2024–2025 campaign, where they showcased one of the most talented rosters in the Greater Wichita Athletic League and finished near the top of the standings. However, the Grizzlies now face a major transition, with the majority of last year's core graduating and leaving behind a team in need of retooling. While this season may bring its share of growing pains, don't count out Northwest just yet. The program's competitive culture remains intact, and with the right internal development, this group has the potential to surprise some people. Returning to lead the way are [player_tooltip player_id='2327576' first='Darrian' last='Hammond'], [player_tooltip player_id='2830123' first='Deshea' last='Benton'], and [player_tooltip player_id='2829113' first='Martell' last='Taylor'] -- three players who now step into central roles. Hammond will likely be tasked with providing much of the offensive firepower. He's a skilled perimeter scorer who can stretch the defense with his outside shooting, but also thrives in transition, where his ability to attack downhill and finish makes him a real threat. Benton brings toughness and versatility to the lineup. He plays with grit on both ends of the floor, contributing as a physical interior scorer and relentless rebounder. His energy and effort should provide extra possessions and much-needed stability as the team finds its identity. Expect him to be a key presence defensively as well. Taylor will take on an expanded role as the team's primary ball-handler and floor general. With increased minutes and responsibilities, he'll be expected to initiate the offense, control tempo, and make smart decisions with the ball. If Taylor can grow into that leadership role, it will go a long way toward keeping the Grizzlies competitive in close games. Though the roster may be young and relatively unproven, Northwest still has the pieces to compete within the GWAL. If Hammond, Benton, and Taylor can take meaningful steps forward in their development and the supporting cast matures quickly, this team could very well play spoiler and challenge some of the league's top programs. Don't be surprised if the Grizzlies push their way into the top five by season's end.</p>   <p>Wichita South enters this season looking to turn the page after a challenging campaign last year, where they struggled against the top-tier teams in the Greater Wichita Athletic League. Despite the adversity, there's a sense of optimism within the program as key pieces return and the team looks to take a meaningful step forward in their development. The Titans bring back two of their top three contributors from last season -- Jamison Howard and Maliek Saunders -- both of whom are expected to be the driving force behind the team's progress. Howard, a skilled and athletic guard, brings a valuable combination of size, strength, and experience to the backcourt. He led South in scoring a year ago, and with another offseason of growth, he's poised to elevate his game even further. Howard excels at attacking the basket, using his frame to finish through contact, and has become a reliable shooter from beyond the arc. As his role expands, he'll also be asked to create more for others, serving as both a scorer and facilitator within the offense. Alongside him, Saunders adds speed and scoring punch to the lineup. His quickness in the open floor and ability to get downhill make him a tough cover for opposing defenses. He'll help set the tempo and offer a secondary scoring option, easing some of the pressure off Howard. Both guards also take pride in rebounding -- particularly impressive given their perimeter roles -- and they'll look to continue contributing in that area to give South extra possessions and help control the pace of games. The key for South this season will be the development of its supporting cast. If role players can emerge and consistently contribute on both ends of the floor, the Titans could make significant strides in the GWAL standings. With Howard and Saunders setting the tone, Wichita South has a foundation in place to become much more competitive -- capable of pushing the league's elite and potentially flipping the script in close matchups.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Contenders – Bishop Carroll, Wichita East, Wichita Heights</em></h3>   <p>One team that could surprise people this season is Bishop Carroll, a program flying under the radar heading into the new campaign. After an up-and-down performance last year, the Golden Eagles are aiming to establish greater consistency within the always-competitive Greater Wichita Athletic League. While they do lose several key seniors who provided valuable production and leadership, the team returns a potential game-changer in [player_tooltip player_id='2623088' first='Brody' last='Kreutzer'], a 6'4” guard expected to lead the charge. Kreutzer is a versatile and confident scorer who can hurt defenses in multiple ways. He's especially effective from beyond the arc, where he shoots with range and efficiency, but also uses his size and strength to attack the rim and finish through contact. More than just a scorer, Kreutzer possesses a high basketball IQ and a strong feel for the game. He's capable of facilitating for others and creating opportunities when the defense collapses, showing a willingness to make the right play rather than forcing his own shot. With the graduation of last year's senior core, Kreutzer will be tasked with carrying much of the offensive load, but his success -- and the team's -- will hinge on the development of the supporting cast. If Carroll can find complementary pieces to step up and embrace their roles, and if the group can play cohesively on both ends of the floor, the Golden Eagles have the tools to remain competitive throughout the season. While they may not be getting much attention now, don't be surprised if Bishop Carroll becomes a tough matchup for any opponent on any given night.</p>   <p>Wichita East enters the season with one of the deepest and most talented rosters in the league, boasting a strong combination of returning experience and diverse skill sets across the board. The Aces will be led by junior guard [player_tooltip player_id='2205722' first='Luke' last='Henderson'], who is set to take over primary ball-handling duties following an impressive sophomore campaign. Henderson showed flashes of high-level play last season and will look to build on that momentum. He possesses an elite handle and excels when operating out of advantage situations. Whether it's finishing at the rim with either hand or making smart decisions in the mid-range, Henderson demonstrates poise and creativity as both a scorer and facilitator. Flanking Henderson are two key frontcourt contributors in [player_tooltip player_id='2394755' first='Kamarion' last='Bodney'] and [player_tooltip player_id='2205715' first='Jaylen' last='Phillips-Grey'], both of whom are expected to play major roles on both ends of the floor. Bodney brings toughness, athleticism, and defensive versatility to the lineup. His ability to guard multiple positions, crash the boards, and play through contact around the rim makes him an invaluable presence in the paint. Meanwhile, Phillips-Grey adds another layer of versatility as a forward who can stretch the floor, handle the ball, and defend inside or on the perimeter. His mobility and all-around game position him to be a major impact player this season. Beyond the core trio, Wichita East also has several other experienced players returning, all eager to step into larger roles. With depth, balance, and versatility at nearly every position, the Aces are well-positioned to make a serious run. If the team can establish chemistry and individual players continue to grow into their roles, expect Wichita East to not only improve in consistency but also emerge as legitimate contenders, capable of challenging the top teams in the league throughout the season.</p>   <p>Heights enters the 2025–26 season looking to maintain its status as one of the premier high school basketball programs in Kansas — though for the first time in years, it will do so under new leadership. Veteran coach Gary Thomason officially takes the reins, bringing a fresh perspective while inheriting a program with a strong culture of winning and a talented roster capable of keeping the Falcons near the top of the GWAL standings. While Heights loses a significant chunk of senior leadership and production from last season, the foundation remains strong thanks to the return of several key contributors — led by one of the league's top players in senior guard [player_tooltip player_id='2211361' first='Jalihn' last='Timmons']. A dynamic, aggressive playmaker, Timmons has built a reputation as a relentless competitor and a tone-setter on both ends of the floor. With multiple years of varsity experience under his belt, he's expected to be the emotional and tactical leader of the team. Timmons' offensive game is built around explosiveness and creativity. He's lightning-quick off the bounce, capable of blowing by defenders and finishing through contact around the rim. His ability to create offense out of nothing makes him dangerous in both half-court and transition settings. Timmons has also shown growth as a perimeter shooter, able to knock down shots off the dribble or when spotting up — making him a more complete offensive threat. Defensively, he's just as impactful. His intensity, quick hands, and lateral speed allow him to hound opposing ball handlers and disrupt offensive flow — often leading to transition opportunities for Heights. Joining Timmons is a supporting cast that blends size, skill, and potential. [player_tooltip player_id='2969778' first='Tyson' last='Phillips'], a 6'6" forward, gives the Falcons a strong interior presence. He has soft hands, good footwork, and can finish effectively with either hand around the basket. Phillips is also a physical rebounder and is expected to anchor the team's defense in the paint, altering shots and controlling the glass. [player_tooltip player_id='2394619' first='Jorelle' last=''] Hadley and [player_tooltip player_id='2401810' first='Ah'Jaylyn' last='Walker'] will help round out the backcourt and add depth to the perimeter rotation. Both guards bring a scoring mindset and the ability to stretch the floor. Hadley is a versatile offensive weapon — able to create off the dribble, shoot from range, and finish at the rim. Walker adds athleticism, slashing ability, and energy on the defensive end. Together, they'll look to complement Timmons and keep the pressure on opposing defenses. While there may be an adjustment period under Coach Thomason's new system, the pieces are in place for Heights to remain in the upper tier of the league. The key will be how quickly the team gels — particularly how the younger and less experienced players adapt to larger roles. If the chemistry comes together and the Falcons can establish defensive consistency, they have the talent and leadership to challenge for a league title and make another deep postseason run.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Champion - Kapaun Mt. Carmel</em></h3>   <p>Kapaun Mt. Carmel is my clear favorite to capture the Greater Wichita Athletic League title -- and perhaps not just this year, but for seasons to come. From top to bottom, the Crusaders are absolutely loaded. They return key pieces from last year's successful campaign, boast impressive depth at both guard and forward positions, and add a highly touted freshman class that could shape the program's future. With the graduation of Corbin Johnson -- the reigning 5A Player of the Year -- the spotlight now shifts to returning standouts [player_tooltip player_id='2211346' first='Rocco' last='Keller'] and Blaise Dalian, who are more than ready to step into bigger roles. Keller is a highly skilled and polished forward who can score at all three levels. He's extremely technical in the post, utilizing a variety of pivots, fakes, and footwork to create separation and finish around the basket with either hand. What makes Keller even more dangerous is his ability to stretch the floor; he shoots it with confidence and accuracy from both mid-range and beyond the arc. Dalian is another forward with tremendous upside. Though slightly undersized for his position, he plays with great energy and toughness, consistently outworking opponents on the glass and around the rim. He's a smart, efficient scorer who moves well off the ball, finds open space within the defense, and knocks down perimeter shots with a smooth, repeatable stroke. Dalian also brings a physical edge, embracing contact and finishing plays in traffic. Supporting that dynamic duo is a deep and versatile group, headlined by [player_tooltip player_id='2395695' first='Jordan' last='Maingu'], Jude Porter, Reid Stuhlsatz, and Ryan Cary. Maingu returns with significant experience and is a defensive anchor, capable of guarding every position on the floor. Offensively, he's a matchup problem thanks to his ability to face up, attack off the bounce, and operate in a variety of offensive sets. Porter, who will take over lead guard responsibilities, brings a high IQ and unselfish playmaking approach. He's aggressive on both ends, with a knack for disrupting opposing offenses and initiating fast breaks -- expect him to be a two-way impact player all year long. Stuhlsatz and Cary are poised to step into bigger roles, providing value as reliable catch-and-shoot threats and disciplined defenders. They play within the system, bring high effort, and will be important floor-spacers as defenses collapse on Keller and Dalian. Perhaps the most intriguing name on the roster is freshman [player_tooltip player_id='2715470' first='Braylon' last='Jones'], who already carries the label as the top player in Kansas' 2029 class. At a young age, he brings size, skill, and versatility that could allow him to contribute immediately. His ceiling is incredibly high, and his early impact could be a difference-maker as the season unfolds. With their blend of proven veterans, rising stars, and elite young talent, Kapaun is built not just to compete, but to dominate. The Crusaders have the tools, depth, and mentality to run through the GWAL and position themselves for another deep run in March. Don't be surprised if they're back in the state championship conversation once again -- with their eyes firmly set on the title.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Top 5 All-Conference Team</em></h3>   <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2211346' first='Rocco' last='Keller'] | 6'5" Forward | Kapaun Mt. Carmel</em></p>   <p><em>Blaise Dalian | 6'5" Forward | Kapaun Mt. Carmel</em></p>   <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2623088' first='Brody' last='Kreutzer'] | 6'4" Guard | Bishop Carroll</em></p>   <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2211361' first='Jalihn' last='Timmons'] | 6'0" Guard | Wichita Heights</em></p>   <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2327576' first='Darrian' last='Hammond'] | 6'0" Guard | Wichita Northwest</em></p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Player of the Year – [player_tooltip player_id='2211361' first='Jalihn' last='Timmons'] | 6'0" Guard | Wichita Heights</em></h3>   <p>My pick for Player of the Year in the Greater Wichita Athletic League is [player_tooltip player_id='2211361' first='Jalihn' last='Timmons'] of Wichita Heights. A proven contributor over the past few seasons for a consistently strong Falcons program, Timmons now steps fully into the spotlight as the unquestioned leader of this year's team. With the keys to the offense in his hands, I expect him to take over games -- especially in league play -- where his experience, skill, and confidence will set him apart. Timmons is a dynamic offensive weapon with a complete and evolving skill set. He thrives in isolation situations, using his quick first step and sharp handle to break down defenders off the dribble. Once he gets into the paint, he finishes well at the rim, showing both athleticism and craft. He also has a smooth and consistent mid-range game, and his ability to shoot the three -- whether off the bounce or in catch-and-shoot situations -- makes him a constant threat from all levels. What elevates Timmons beyond just a scoring guard is his decision-making and playmaking ability. He's capable of creating offense not only for himself but for his teammates, reading defenses and making the right plays in the flow of the game. This year, with more offensive freedom and a larger role, his court vision and leadership will be on full display. Defensively, Timmons has taken noticeable strides as well. His quickness and anticipation allow him to stay in front of opposing guards, and his effort on that end adds another dimension to his overall impact. In a league full of talented players, it's this two-way presence that I believe gives Timmons the edge. If he plays to his potential, [player_tooltip player_id='2211361' first='Jalihn' last='Timmons'] has all the tools to not only dominate the GWAL but firmly establish himself as one of the top players in the state.</p>

I turn my focus to the always-competitive Greater Wichita Athletic League, offering in-depth team predictions. I spotlight a couple of sleeper teams, break down the top contenders, reveal my pick to win the conference, unveil my “Top 5” All-Conference selections, and project this season's Player of the Year.