The high school basketball season has come to a thrilling conclusion, with standout players and coaches being recognized for their exceptional performances on the court. In a nail-biting finish, Bishop Seabury coach Trey Johnson celebrated with his team after a buzzer-beater 3 by junior Jace Smith secured a victory over Centralia.
Johnson was named Coach of the Year for leading the Seabury boys program to its best finish ever, with a record of 21-5 and a runner-up spot in the state tournament. The team averaged an impressive 65.8 points per game and had multiple All-Kaw Valley selections.
On the player side, Lawrence High’s Zaxton King was named Player of the Year after averaging an outstanding 27.6 points per game and earning Sunflower League Player of the Year honors. King played a pivotal role in guiding his team to a successful season under head coach Nick Wood.
Other standout players included Bishop Seabury’s Jace Smith, who averaged 16.8 points per game and showcased his skills as a top 3-point shooter, and Chase Honarvar, who led the state in blocks and rebounds while contributing 14.7 points per game.
The season also saw impressive performances from Baldwin High’s Cooper Carr and Talan Torrez, Eudora High’s Logan Sullivan, Perry-Lecompton’s Ronnie Baker and Eli Dean, and Veritas Christian’s Gavin Oberzan. These players demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication on the court, earning recognition for their contributions to their teams’ success.