The best player on the best team in Kansas — and my choice for the DiRenna Award — is Simmons. He saved his best basketball for the stretch run, leading Olathe North to a state championship in dominant fashion. A quick, shifty lead guard who can change speed and direction in a blur, Sam took over games on both ends of the floor all season. He averaged over 14 points and five assists per game for the 24–4 Eagles while also earning Gatorade Player of the Year honors in Kansas. Simmons will now head to Richmond, where he should be a name to watch early, as he’ll have a chance to make an immediate impact for the Spiders.

Sam Simmons has established himself as an elite point guard, combining strength, skill, and high-level basketball IQ. He plays with physicality, finishing through contact at the rim while also being a reliable perimeter shooter who can stretch the defense. His court vision stands out, consistently creating opportunities for teammates and controlling the pace of the game. On the biggest stage, he delivered a dominant performance in the state championship, recording 13 points and 7 rebounds while making a clear impact on both ends of the floor.

Sam Simmons finished with 13 points and added four assists. He contributed as a scorer while also creating opportunities for teammates, helping move the offense and keep the ball flowing throughout the game.

No question, Simmons was the best athlete — and the best player — on the floor throughout the contest against perennial rival Olathe East. The mark of an elite lead guard is pace and feel, and Sam checks both of those boxes. He glided up and down the court effortlessly, creating advantages seemingly at will with his ability to start, stop, and generate space from primary defenders. In transition, he could accelerate to the rim or pull up smoothly for a variety of jumpshots. When Olathe East sent extra defenders his way, he read the openings perfectly, making the right play and setting up teammates for drive-and-kick opportunities. His willingness to use his body when finishing demonstrated both skill and intelligence, showing he knows how to find space and exploit advantages. Add in his defensive intensity and relentless pursuit of the ball, and it’s easy to see why Sam is both a winner and a true game-changer.

Sam Simmons has been a model of consistency throughout his entire career, proving himself as a top-tier guard at every level of competition. He is an exceptional shooter with range and accuracy, a skilled ball handler who can navigate pressure with ease, and a confident finisher around the rim. His combination of offensive versatility and reliability makes him a constant threat on the court. Ranked as the #1 player, Sam’s status is backed by his experience as a state finalist returner and his commitment to Richmond, highlighting both his talent and his readiness to perform at the next level.

Sam Simmons enters the season as the #1 player in the state, and his game backs up every bit of that ranking. He plays with a calm, composed poise that elevates everyone around him, reading defenses with elite court vision and making the right play every trip down the floor. As a shooter, he’s absolutely lethal—capable of knocking down tough shots off the dribble, spotting up with precision, and stretching defenses far beyond the arc. Returning from the All-State team, Sam brings leadership, experience, and a complete skill set that makes him one of the most dangerous and reliable players in the state.

Sam Simmons is an elite scoring guard whose quickness, strength, and efficiency make him one of the top guards in the state. He has the ability to create his own shot from anywhere on the floor, using his speed to blow by defenders and his strength to finish through contact. Simmons plays with confidence and poise, consistently making smart decisions and converting high-percentage opportunities. His all-around offensive game and competitive mindset make him a go-to player in big moments and a major problem for opposing defenses.