Kansas Preview: Frontier League Shows Promise

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Frontier League steps into the spotlight as I break it all down. I look into the league -- highlighting a sleeper team, analyzing the top contenders, revealing my pick to win the conference, unveiling my All-Conference “Top 5,” and projecting this season's Player of the Year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Sleeper - Spring Hill</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Spring Hill emerges as a sleeper contender in the Frontier League this winter, with the potential to surprise many around the region. Leading the charge is standout junior [player_tooltip player_id='1974549' first='Jackson' last='Bruce'], who enters the season as one of the premier players in the league -- regardless of position. Bruce has built a strong reputation for his elite shooting ability, marked by a quick release and pinpoint accuracy from beyond the arc. His movement off the ball is equally impressive; he consistently finds pockets of space within the defense, allowing him to get his shot off efficiently and effectively. Beyond his shooting, Bruce showed notable growth over the summer, expanding his offensive arsenal. He's become a more dynamic scorer off the dribble, capable of attacking closeouts, getting into the paint, and finishing at the rim -- often through contact. This development makes him a more complete offensive threat and much harder to guard. Supporting Bruce are returning contributors Jordan Miller and Peyton McEvoy, two players poised for breakout seasons. Both have the potential to significantly elevate their impact on both ends of the floor. Miller brings versatility and length, while McEvoy adds toughness and defensive intensity. Their ability to contribute as dependable two-way players will be a key factor in the Broncos' success. With Bruce taking another leap forward and both Miller and McEvoy expected to raise their level of play, Spring Hill is positioned to make noise in the Frontier League. If things come together, the Broncos not only have the tools to compete but could realistically challenge for a spot in the league's upper tier by season's end.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Contenders - Ottawa, Eudora, Bonner Springs</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Ottawa is coming off a remarkable 2024–2025 campaign, where they went undefeated through the regular season and into the state tournament. While their season ended in heartbreak with a narrow loss late in the postseason, the Cyclones left no doubt about their place among the elite programs in the state. Despite graduating some key contributors, Ottawa remains firmly in the mix for another deep run thanks to the return of their standout leader, [player_tooltip player_id='2327575' first='Aiden' last='McCullough']. McCullough, a dynamic and physically strong wing, is the heart and soul of this team. Known for his high motor and all-around impact, he brings an edge every time he steps on the court. Offensively, McCullough is versatile and difficult to guard. He can score in a variety of ways -- slashing to the basket with purpose, pulling up confidently from the perimeter, or breaking down defenders off the bounce with his tight handle. His skill set makes him a constant scoring threat, but it's his willingness to share the ball that sets him apart. McCullough is as much a facilitator as he is a scorer, showing great court vision and feel for the game. He reads defenses well, delivers sharp, accurate passes, and creates easy opportunities for his teammates. Defensively, he's just as valuable -- whether locking down opponents on the ball or jumping passing lanes to generate fast-break chances. His ability to impact every facet of the game makes him one of the most complete players in the region. Joining him is rising junior guard Jayce Mourning, who burst onto the scene last year and made a name for himself, especially with his performance in the state tournament. A left-handed playmaker with a polished skill set, Mourning excels at orchestrating the offense while maintaining a scoring mindset. He shoots it well from deep, attacks off the dribble, and has a creative finishing package around the rim that allows him to convert in traffic or against bigger defenders. Together, McCullough and Mourning form one of the most formidable backcourt duos in the Frontier League. Their chemistry, leadership, and individual talent will be key drivers for Ottawa's success this season. Combined with the program's strong culture and tradition of excellence, the Cyclones are once again poised to contend for the league title -- and perhaps another shot at a state championship.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Eudora enters the season as a serious contender in the Frontier League, and they have every reason to believe they'll be competing alongside the league's top programs from start to finish. With a solid core of returning talent and several young players who gained meaningful experience last year, the Cardinals are poised to take a significant step forward. Leading the charge are two rising names: Ryan Osburn and Cash Schneider, both of whom bring unique skill sets that complement each other well. Osburn is a versatile and physically imposing forward who can stretch the floor with his shooting and bang inside when needed. He's shown consistent ability to knock down shots from the perimeter, forcing defenders to step out, while also possessing the strength and touch to finish through contact in the paint. His two-way presence gives Eudora flexibility on both ends of the floor. Cash Schneider, now a sophomore, is another key piece expected to elevate his game this season. He's already proven to be a high-level shooter, with impressive range and a quick release that demands defensive attention. But what makes Schneider stand out is his feel for the game -- he reads defenses well, makes smart decisions with the ball, and can serve as a secondary playmaker when the offense needs to flow through multiple hands. His development will be a critical part of Eudora's progression this season. Sy Thomas also returns as the team's leader and floor general. A steadying presence at the point guard spot, Thomas sets the tone with his energy, poise, and defensive intensity. He's Eudora's top on-ball defender and consistently makes plays that don't always show up on the stat sheet -- whether it's diving for a loose ball, forcing a turnover, or setting the pace in transition. Offensively, he's capable of breaking down defenses and finding the open man, making him a true two-way asset. With the combination of Osburn's inside-out versatility, Schneider's high-upside scoring potential, and Thomas' leadership and defensive grit, Eudora has the talent, balance, and depth to be a legitimate threat in the Frontier League title race. The experience gained by their young core last season should pay dividends now, and if that growth continues, the Cardinals could find themselves not just in contention -- but leading the pack.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bonner Springs returns nearly its entire core from last season's impressive campaign, positioning the Braves as a top contender for the Frontier League crown in 2025-2026. After finishing 11–3 in league play last year -- good for a share of second place -- the pieces are in place for this group to take the next step. With experience, athleticism, and a strong culture, Bonner Springs has all the ingredients of a championship-caliber team. At the heart of the Braves' attack is point guard [player_tooltip player_id='2211348' first='Kelan' last='Gruver'], the team's emotional leader. Gruver, the son of head coach Drew Gruver, plays the game with exceptional IQ and maturity. He's a true coach on the floor -- calm under pressure, always making the right read, and elevating those around him. Offensively, he's unselfish and methodical, balancing his scoring and playmaking with precision. While not always flashy, Gruver is a highly effective and underrated scorer, capable of knocking down perimeter shots, attacking closeouts, and finishing in traffic. He also contributes in often overlooked areas, like offensive rebounding, where his timing and effort create valuable second-chance opportunities. What separates Gruver even further is his defensive prowess. He consistently puts himself in the right positions, whether it's rotating as a help defender, jumping passing lanes, or drawing charges. His anticipation and effort on that end set the tone for the Braves defensively. Gruver will be flanked by two dynamic brothers, Jason and [player_tooltip player_id='2820802' first='Jaiden' last='Jones'] -- both elite athletes and impact two-way players who bring explosiveness and versatility to the lineup. Jason Jones is a slasher and finisher who thrives in transition and off the bounce from the wing. He plays with energy, often attacking the rim with force and athleticism. Whether it's finishing above the rim or cutting through traffic, Jason creates pressure on defenses every time he touches the ball. He's also a constant lob threat and does a great job of finding soft spots in the defense for high-percentage looks. [player_tooltip player_id='2820802' first='Jaiden' last='Jones'], standing at 6'5", adds a physical and vertical dimension to the Braves' lineup. His ability to run the floor, grab offensive rebounds, and protect the rim makes him a crucial piece on both ends. Defensively, he's a presence in the paint -- altering shots, challenging drivers, and providing help-side rim protection. Offensively, his motor allows him to rack up transition points and second-chance buckets with regularity. With Gruver's steady leadership at the helm, the athleticism and growth of the Jones brothers, and a solid supporting cast around them, Bonner Springs has every reason to believe they can win the Frontier League title this season. Their combination of experience, chemistry, and toughness makes them one of the most complete teams in the league. If their key players continue progressing and role players step up, this group could not only contend for the league but make a run beyond it.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Champion - Baldwin</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Baldwin enters the winter as my preseason favorite to win the Frontier League -- and for good reason. The Bulldogs return a highly experienced and talented core, bringing back key contributors who were instrumental in last season's success. With unfinished business in both league play and the state tournament, this team appears locked in and ready to chase championships. Leading the charge is senior guard [player_tooltip player_id='1624974' first='Cooper' last='Carr'], one of the most dynamic backcourt players in the region. Carr is a true game-changer -- a lead guard who can take control of a contest in an instant. He blends strength, skill, and basketball IQ in a way that's tough to match. Offensively, Carr is a nightmare to defend. He uses his powerful frame and tight handle to slice through defenses, and once he's in the paint, he excels at creating space with shot fakes, pivots, and crafty footwork. He's highly efficient around the rim, even when facing size and contact. But Carr's game doesn't stop there -- he's also a reliable shooter from the perimeter, able to score off the dribble or in catch-and-shoot situations. What sets him apart even more is his vision and feel for the game. Carr is a high-level passer who sees plays developing before they unfold, often finding teammates for easy baskets with pinpoint accuracy. Alongside him is 6'5" forward [player_tooltip player_id='2403183' first='Leo' last='Schoenberger'], one of the more intriguing and versatile players in the league. Schoenberger continues to develop rapidly and brings a dynamic inside-out skill set to Baldwin's frontcourt. He's a consistent threat from three-point range and doesn't hesitate to step outside and stretch the floor. Yet, he's just as effective when attacking off the bounce or finishing through contact in traffic. Schoenberger's athleticism, length, and aggressive mentality make him a mismatch problem on both ends of the floor. [player_tooltip player_id='2327579' first='Colton' last='Collum'], another 6'5" presence, anchors Baldwin's interior with physicality and toughness. Collum brings an old-school post presence -- he plays with his back to the basket, creates separation with his body, and has shown the ability to finish over either shoulder. On the defensive end, Collum is just as valuable. He battles for position, rebounds at a high rate, and provides versatility with his ability to defend both in the post and in space. Together, Carr, Schoenberger, and Collum form one of the most complete and experienced trios in the league -- a group that plays with edge, confidence, and cohesion. With this core leading the way, Baldwin is not only the favorite to claim the Frontier League title, but also a legitimate contender to make noise in March and compete for a state championship.</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>[player_tooltip player_id='1624974' first='Cooper' last='Carr'] | 6'3" Guard | Baldwin</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2327575' first='Aiden' last='McCullough'] | 6'3" Wing | Ottawa</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='1974549' first='Jackson' last='Bruce'] | 6'4" Guard | Spring Hill</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2211348' first='Kelan' last='Gruver'] | 6'2" Guard | Bonner Springs</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2403183' first='Leo' last='Schoenberger'] | 6'5" Forward | Baldwin</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Player of the Year - [player_tooltip player_id='1624974' first='Cooper' last='Carr'] | 6'3" Guard | Baldwin</em></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In what was a tough decision among a league full of standout talent, [player_tooltip player_id='1624974' first='Cooper' last='Carr'] gets the nod as my pick for Frontier League Player of the Year. The senior guard is poised for a massive final season -- one that could not only elevate Baldwin to a league title, but also to a deep postseason run with legitimate state championship aspirations. Carr is the complete package at the guard spot. Physically, he's a well-built, sturdy presence who plays with strength, poise, and confidence. What sets him apart, though, is his versatility. He can initiate the offense as a true floor general or work off the ball just as effectively, using smart movement and sharp instincts to create scoring chances. His understanding of spacing, tempo, and defensive reads allows him to consistently make the right play. Offensively, Carr is dangerous at all three levels. He has a smooth and efficient perimeter shot, capable of knocking down looks off the catch or the dribble. But he's especially lethal when attacking off the bounce. Whether it's with a hesitation move, change of pace, or simply using his frame to shield off defenders, Carr has an arsenal of ways to get to the rim. Once inside, he shows great touch and creativity -- utilizing floaters, reverse finishes, and mid-air adjustments to convert through traffic. He's not just a scorer either. Carr rebounds exceptionally well for a guard, often creating second-chance points for himself and extra possessions for his team. His effort on the glass and ability to push in transition adds another dimension to Baldwin's offense. Perhaps most importantly, Carr embraces the moment. He's a proven clutch performer -- someone who welcomes the ball in his hands when the game is tight and a big shot is needed. Whether it's creating for others or hitting a game-winner himself, Carr thrives under pressure. With a seasoned supporting cast and a strong system around him, Carr is primed for a big senior campaign that could cement his legacy as one of the best to come through Baldwin. If the Bulldogs go on the run many expect, don't be surprised if Carr is the driving force -- and the clear choice -- for Player of the Year honors.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->