Sumner Academy's 4A State Championship run got me thinking more about the basketball tradition in Kansas City, Kan.

Having traveled around the state the past two years while cover KCK hoops, there's a sense from my gathering that the tradition in KCK is not as appreciated as it should be.

Consider these basketball traditions in KCK and ask yourselves why the city is not as respected as it should be.

• Wyandotte Basketball: Any mention of hoops in KCK needs to be accommodated by talking about Wyandotte Bulldog basketball. If it's not law, it should be. Wyandotte has won 20 state titles, the most by far of any school in the state. They won titles in seven decades during the 20th Century, including an undefeated national championship in 1923. Slackers.

• The greatest high school basketball dynasty ever: Wyandotte was the first high school to win 1,000 games in the United States. Part of that can be attributed to the Walt Shublom Dynasty where Wyandotte went 296-26 over a 14-year period beginning in 1959. That's an obscene winning percentage of 92, if you're counting at home. Shublom, as a head coach, won 10 titles, coached Wyandotte to two undefeated seasons and finished five more years with just one loss. While eras are different, it's tough to imagine another one stacking up like Wyandotte's did from the late 50s to the early 1970s.

• Randy Springs: An argument also be made that Randy Springs is the greatest high school basketball coach in the state's history. Springs is the only coach to win titles at three different schools – and he won two at each of them. Along with winning two titles at Highland Park in Topeka, Kan., Springs won two titles at two KCK schools – Wyandotte and Sumner Academy. His impact at Sumner Academy is still being felt after he built them into one of the city's dominant programs in the mid-1990s.

• Sumner Academy: In the past 14 seasons, Sumner Academy has made 12 trips to the state tournament, whether it be 5A or 4A. The Sabres have won three state titles in the past 12 years and should be classified as a modern day dynasty. From Kelyn Block to Jeff Hawkins to Reese Holliday, Sumner's been a great program for nearly 15 years. Before integrating, Sumner High School also had an undefeated season in 1969 to win the state tournament.

• Schlagle High School: The team of the 1990s was flat out scary at times. The Stallions won titles in 1993 and 1995. They came very close to winning titles in 1999 and 2000. The Stallions' tradition was awesome in the 1990s. Under Chuck Minor, Schlagle was dominant for about a 10-year period.

• Lucius Allen: Allen's the only athlete from Kansas to win a title at all three levels in basketball– high school (Wyandotte), college (UCLA) and NBA (Milwaukee). Allen just might be the best player in Wyandotte history.

• Other NBA Talent: Along with Allen, Earl Watson is currently playing in the NBA. Wyandotte's Larry Drew, Larry Comely, Pierre Russell and Earl Watson also played in the NBA. Victor Williams is currently in the NBA Development League. Local players eventually moved on to play at big colleges like the University of Kansas and UCLA.

• Wyandotte and Washington's gyms: While some gyms in the city have the personality of a morgue, there might not be two better places to play or watch a game than at Wyandotte and Washington. Wyandotte's gym is proof perfection can be possible, while Washington is the loudest gym I've ever been in.

There's a ton of basketball history in KCK. Not enough people know about it, however. Keep this mind – only in KCK a school with four titles (Sumner Academy) pales in comparison to another school (Wyandotte's 20 titles).

This year will hopefully remind fans and followers of Kansas high school basketball about that tradition. Sumner brought home the trophy, Washington appeared in state and Harmon's rebuilding process nearly led it to state this season.

While Sumner Academy is celebrating its fourth state title, next year's season is already on my mind.

Here's a look at some things to watch before and during next year's season in the Kansas City, Kan., League. (Well, excuse me – the Kansas City-Atchison League.)

• Transfers: There's always rumors of players transferring to other schools. This year is no different. Transfers are critical to a team's success or downfall. The most notable transfer in recent memory is when Leo Lyons (then Leo Criswell) transferred from Washington High School to Piper. Although there's not an impact player like that, any transfer could be key. Whether its across state lines or inside the district, transfers can make a huge impact.

• How will Washington adjust to being on the radar?: The Wildcats had a great final month of the season and crashed the dream of a Highland Park-Bishop Miege state game. However, now they'll have everyone's attention. Will they play the role of the (or at least a) favorite well?

• It's Benny Parker's team: Sumner has a lot to replace with Reese Holliday, Davonte Chaney, Anthony White and Justin Strickland graduating. But Parked showed he could be a team leader at the state tournament and nearly single handedly beat Topeka-Hayden.

• While the champs and Harmon both lose seniors, don't write them off: Both Sumner Academy and Harmon have talented to very talented sophomore classes and a few freshman to keep an eye on. Sumner's Vernon Vaughn, Marcus Allen and Falcon brothers will likely join Parker and Eli Alexander on the varsity roster. Meanwhile, don't think the past two years have been flukes at Harmon. A sophomore class consisting of Jordan Horn, Darrin Hawks, Branden Roark, Al Hayes and Terrance Simmons will help pick up the slack for the departing De'Ontae Hooks, James Davenport and Exavier Bass-Brooks. Harmon's freshman of the year Mike Carson has a possibility of starting.

• Speaking of Harmon, Jauan Wilson's "the man.": Although he's been credited with being the team leader since his freshman year, Wilson is the team's lone senior next season and is the unquestionable leader of the team. Wilson has the ability to put his team on his back like Holliday and Washington's Tra'Vaughn White did this year. Will he take a younger group of Hawks to the state tournament? Big things are expected for Wilson, who's considered the "face of the program" by his coaching staff.

• Will perennial powers Wyandotte, Schlagle improve?: It's been a few rough seasons for these teams. Schlagle looks like the better of the two teams, bringing back Rozell Nunn and LaRay Young. Wyandotte will look to fill the (very large) void of Trinity Hall. Terry Moore returns for the Bulldogs.

• How will the freshman classes look?: Every two or three seasons, a freshman class comes along that transforms the league. Four years ago, a class arrived at Sumner Academy that had two guys named Reese Holliday and Davonte Chaney. Since then, they've won a state title, three league titles and several individual awards. The class did pretty well. This past season, Washington can boast pride about having the best freshman. Two years ago, Harmon had its best freshman team ever. There may not be star power in this league next year, but young talent is everywhere.

• Will Washington's junior class from this season take another step?: White, Kalen Allen and the Hibler Twins (Myles and MIchael) were not expected to take Washington to state this season. Entering next year with Wyandotte County's best senior class, will they contend for a state title? Talking to White a few weeks ago, he expects it. As bold as that sounds, he's been pretty accurate so far in his predictions.

• Will Atchison do anything to shakeup the league?: In basketball, it doesn't look probable. The team resembled road kill against their future league opponents this season, most notably getting destroyed at home by both Sumner Academy and Washington. It might take a few seasons for them to contend.

10. Dominance of Washington freshman team: Every few years or so, there are some classes in Wyandotte County that are special. The freshman group at Washington High School has an opportunity to go down as one of the best in recent years. The talent is very deep and just about every piece to the puzzle is there. They defeated fellow Wyandotte County rivals by double figures on a consistent basis. Having seen them in action, this group has a swagger to it as well. They'll be tough as nails to play against the next three years.

9. Harmon snaps Sumner's KCKL streak: The Harmon Hawks handed the Sumner Academy Sabres their first loss in Kansas City, Kan., League play in three years. Entering the game, Sumner had won 23 consecutive games against KCK rivals. Harmon snapped the streak. Sumner since then has rebounded.

8. Close losses haunt Wyandotte: The Wyandotte Bulldogs finished the season 7-14 this year. It could have been a winning season for Wyandotte, but the Bulldogs lost six games by five points or less. A few possessions here or three could have changed the entire season.

7. Injuries do in Schlagle again: With Rozell Nunn coming off a season-ending injury last year, he started the season a bit rusty, but ended with a bang. But during the season, the Stallions lost LaRay Young, the team's third leading scorer and one of the more talented sophomores in Wyandotte County. His loss hit the Stallions hard.

6. Harmon season ends in heartbreak: The Harmon Hawks had a five-point lead late in the fourth quarter and a four-point lead late in the first overtime period in their sub-state final loss to Gardner-Edgerton. However, the Hawks could not quite put the game away and fell short of Topeka, Kan. Harmon finished the season 18-4.

5. Tra'Vaughn White soars: Entering the season, a group of seniors were expected to be the stars of Wyandotte County (see #3 on this list). A younger star threw his name into the hat as the best player in Kansas City, Kan. Washington Wildcats junior guard Tra'Vaughn White was simply sensational this year. Just a junior, White put the entire school on his back and punched a ticket to the 5A state tournament this week in Topeka. White had eight games this season where he scored at least 29 points and he's second in the state in scoring. He averages about 6 assists and 5 rebounds a game.

4. Harmon basketball celebrates best season in 20 years: Disappointing sub-state loss aside, the Harmon Hawks had their best season in 20 years. The Hawks appeared in the school's first ever Hy-Vee Shootout, had a McDonald's All-American in De'Ontae Hooks, won two tournaments during the regular season in Eudora and Coffeyville, snapped Sumner's streak, had its best KCKL record in 20 years and won 13-straight games during the season. Along with Hooks, seniors James Davenport, Exavier Bass-Brooks, Ron Stallings and John Zeno led the team. Junior Jauan Wilson is expected to pick things up quite a bit next year. After two losing seasons to begin his career at Harmon, head coach Heath Cooper appears to have things rolling at Harmon.

3. KCK's best senior class in a long time: Kansas City, Kan., had its best group of seniors in a while. Sumner Academy's Reese Holliday, along with White, is the most clutch player in the city and his performances against Basehor-Linwood and St. James Academy show that. Holliday has been to state three straight seasons. Wyandotte's Trinity Hall is the city's (not KCK – the entire metro area) most underrated player and has a solid, complete game. Harmon's senior class, led by Hooks and Davenport, transformed a program. Hooks was one of the league's best overall players. Sumner's Davonte Chaney turned in another solid year. Schlagle's Darius Hill had a nice senior season to end his Stallion career.

2. Sumner Academy makes third straight state tournament: Sumner Academy won a third consecutive sub-state title this year. Holliday put on one of the most epic performances of any Kansas City area player this season, scoring 27 points and pulling in 16 rebounds against Basehor-Linwood. The Sabres won a thriller in overtime against St. James Academy the night before playing Basehor-Linwood. While this team may not have the style points as last year's team, the 19-4 Sabres are still really, really good and might be better in this sense: this team's on a mission. Winning sub-state wasn' t a big deal for them this year. The trophy presentation was one of the shortest I've seen. Sumner should be considered the favorite at this week's tournament in Salina, Kan. I like their chances a lot.

1. Washington becomes KCK's Cinderella: Not to disrespect the other schools, but Washington's postseason run has been dramatic and unexpected. While White has certainly led the team, others have stepped up. Kalen Allen's a dangerous three-point shooter, Myles Hibler is maturing into one of the better inside players in the league and senior starters Deandre Campbell and Deandre Clark were very key in the team's victory at Highland Park. The Wildcats went through Lansing, a team they lost to in last year's sub-state final. And they then knocked off the three-time defending state champion Highland Park team. Washington's run is one of the best stories in recent KCK hoops history. Having visited the school earlier this week, there is a buzz to it because of the basketball team's success.

With the bigger awards out of the way, here are some of the other Kansas City, Kan., League award winners from The Kansas City Kansan.

NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR

Anthony White, Sumner Academy: While his offensive production won't blow anyone off the charts, White had some timely points for the Sumner Academy Sabres all season long. White's rebounding and defensive presence were key in some important victories for the Sabres, most notably at Washington High School and at Basehor-Linwood during the sub-state championship game. White joined the basketball team this year as a senior and will make his first appearance in the state title game.

COMEBACK PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Rozell Nunn, Schlagle: Coming back from an injury, Nunn scored 15.6 points a game, adding 7 rebounds and 5.6 assists a game for the Schlagle Stallions. Nunn, a junior, will be a contender for the Kansas City, Kan., League Player of the Year next year. He shook off some early rust and scored 32 points in Schlagle's upset bid against Topeka-Seaman at the 5A sub-state tournament.

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER

James Davenport, Harmon: As I wrote in my piece about Harmon's senior class, Davenport doubled his points and doubled his rebounds. He nearly averaged a double-double a game and he starred in some of Harmon's important games. He had 27 points and 22 rebounds against Sumner in the first game between the schools. He had a 19 rebound game against Washington. If Davenport were a junior instead of a senior, he might be one of the three best players in the league next year. Schlagle's Darius Hill, Wyandotte's Terry Moore and Sumner Academy's Justin Strickland were also considered.

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Benny Parker, Sumner Academy: Barely edging out his teammate Davonte Chaney, Parker was one of the few players in the city to hold Washington's Tra'Vaughn White at bay – White scored "just" 21 points against Sumner Academy. The 21 points were his second lowest point total. Parker's quick hands resulted in steals this season and his lightning quick. Along with Parker and Chaney, Harmon's De'Ontae Hooks and Washington's Myles Hibler and Rakim McCoy were also considered.

FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR

Mike Carson, Harmon: Watching more freshman basketball this year than ever before, Carson strikes me as the biggest impact player of this year's freshman crop of talent. Carson, who measures around 6-5 already, has skills that can't be taught. He has a great touch, can rebound and block a shot (or five) a game. Carson could be the best player in the entire league within two years. He has an opportunity to hit the KCKL like a hurricane over the next three seasons.

ASSISTANT COACH OF THE YEAR

Brian Everett, Harmon: Along with his varsity duties during Harmon's great 18-4 season, Everett led an undermanned Harmon freshman team (with just six players at times) to an 11-6 record. He was also an assistant on Harmon's junior varsity team, which lost just three games this season. Everett served all three of his school's teams at a high level.

BEST FRESHMAN TEAM

Washington: The younger Wildcats were deep and had their way with Harmon and Sumner Academy multiple times. Beginning next year, no program will be in better shape than Washington's. These young Wildcats will soon make noise at the big level. Harmon's freshman team was the second best, with Sumner finishing third.

BEST JUNIOR VARSITY TEAM

Sumner Academy: The Sabres lost just one league varsity game and have won 27 out of their last 28 KCKL games at the junior varsity level. Harmon's JV team has talent, though.

All five girls basketball teams from the Kansas City, Kan., League lost Thursday night in postseason action.

• Harmon, with 11 points from Sara Dominguez, was unable to do much against Bishop Miege. Miege, the defending girls basketball champions at the level, jumped out to a 25-4 lead. They led 44-10 at the half. Miege won the game 74-19.

• Like the boys team, the Wyandotte girls team had their season ended by Gardner-Edgerton High School. Wyandotte was led by Royce Shields' 9 points in the 60-13 defeat. The Bulldogs scored just six points in the first half, trailing 32-6.

• A tough second half for the Schlagle Lady Stallions ended their state run in the first round. Schlagle was defeated 52-33 by Highland Park. After trailing 20-18 at the half, Highland Park outscored Schlagle 20-8 in the third quarter. The Stallions were led by Paris Johnson's 13 points. Erin Copeland scored nine.

• Topeka Seaman knocked out Washington 64-19. The Wildcats, led by Marisha Henderson's 14 points, trailed early and often. Topeka Seaman led 23-2 after the first quarter and led 37-5 at halftime.

• Sumner Academy, after defeating Piper in the first round of the 4A sub-state playoffs, fell to Baldwin 51-46 at Basehor-Linwood.

The Wyandotte Bulldogs couldn't quite come up with the same magic as they did last year at this time, falling to Gardner 92-79 on the road.

The Bulldogs were led by Terry Moore's 21 points and Adrian Goodlow's 17 point.

Gardner contained Trinity Hall to just 13 points in his final game for Wyandotte High School.

The Bulldogs couldn't quite keep up Gardner's pace of play – allowing 20 points in each quarter. Gardner led 21-15 after the first quarter and 46-35 at halftime.

While the Bulldogs nibbled away at the lead some in the second half, Gardner extended the lead to 69-54 entering the fourth quarter.

Bubba Starling's 28 points led the way for Gardner.

Gardner improves to 17-4 on the season and will face Harmon at Bishop Miege High School Friday night.

Two Wyandotte County teams advanced into the next round of the Kansas 5A Basketball Tournament, while three were sent home.

Harmon handily defeated Turner 86-56. They will play Gardner, who knocked off Wyandotte 92-79.

The most impressive win for a local team tonight came in Lansing, Kan., as the Washington Wildcats pulled a mild upset over Lansing. Washington was knocked out of the tournament last year in the same gym. Washington prevailed 64-53.

Meanwhile, Schlagle suffered a heartbreaking one-point defeat in the final seconds against Topeka-Seaman.

FULL RECAPS SOON.

When we're in middle school, most of us dream grand illusions.

President of the United States. Creating the next big invention. World peace. Starting for the Los Angeles Lakers. Playing right field for the New York Yankees.

For Wyandotte Bulldog basketball star Trinity Hall, the dream was more attainable.

"I always dreamed of playing basketball for Wyandotte," Hall said. "I wanted to be a Bulldog. I wanted to be at Wyandotte High School."

Regardless of how deep Wyandotte goes in the 5A state tournament, Hall's biggest dream is coming to an end in the next month. Hall has started at Wyandotte most of his career and his game improved each year.

For Wyandotte head coach Tracy Dyer, Hall's been a dream to coach.

"He's been a very fun player to coach," Dyer said. "I've only had to yell at him once in two years."

Hall, who stands 6-7 in size, might have the most complete game in Wyandotte County. He's a terrific three-point shooter, a solid rebounder and he's developed an inside game his senior year.

No Kansas City, Kan, player’s presence on the court is quite like Hall’s.

"I worked over the summer on improving my game," Hall said. "I really wanted to focus for my senior season.

Improving his post presence, Hall said, was the target. In summer league games and practices, Hall competed against guys who measure 6-9 or 6-10.

That practice has apparently paid off.

As the regular season closed last week, Hall averaged 20 points, about 7 rebounds, 4 assists and two blocks a game. Needless to say, he filled the stat line just about every night.

Hall scored 30 points twice against Washington earlier this year in victories and hit 28 points against the 17-3 Harmon Hawks in February. Because of foul trouble, he scored "only" 19 points in what amounted to just over a half of action against Sumner Academy this season.

Still, Hall's best game may have came in his final game at Shublom Gymnasium, Wyandotte's basketball cathedral.

Hall earned a triple-double against Schlagle, meaning he hit double figures in points, rebounds and assists.

Despite his accomplishments, Hall may not be the best person to ask about his own games. He consistently credits those around him.

"The coaches opened the offense up for me entering this year," Hall said. "My teammates have really helped out in getting me involved. It’s been great playing with them. The coaches really allowed me to use more of my game in the offense this season."

It won't take Dyer as long to give you a strong endorsement of Hall's game.

"In rhythm, he's a great three-point shooter," Dyer said. "One of the best. He's worked really hard on his inside game. He has an even better upside and he’ll get better.”

If Dyer's words aren't quite enough for you, ask Harmon head coach Heath Cooper about Hall. Cooper's coached against Hall-led varsity teams seven times – more than any other coach in the entire metro area.

"He's one of if not the most talented players in the Kansas City, Kan., League," Cooper said after Hall scored 28 on his Hawks earlier this month. "He's got a great inside game and great outside game. He's also a great kid."

Cooper said his own scouting plan "takes all five guys" to stop Hall.

Although Cooper and other opposing coaches could get headaches scheming against Hall, it doesn't take away the impact the senior has made for the league.

"Our league will really miss him as a player next year," Cooper said.

Some leaders are vocal during the game. Others are not. While the team leader, don't expect Hall to let every observer know about it.

"It's his personality," Dyer said. "He's a quiet leader and he leads by example. But he will get after them if needed."

The solid stat-lines and high praises aside, Hall has remained mostly under the radar in Kansas City– something even the humble Hall will agree with it.

"I think my game is underrated to some," Hall said. "I'm not getting a lot of college looks, but some.”

Dyer theorizes the team's losing record has hurt Hall among some college and local circuits.

"I thought this would be the year we got into double figures for wins," Dyer said. "We lost six games by five points or less. I have to take some responsibility for that. Our guards have not played well this year, although they're getting better."

But Dyer's message to potential college scouts – don't let the record get in the way.

"He'll always be one of the first kids in and one of the last kids out," Dyer said. "He's made me learn so much about myself. I'm a better person and coach.”
“No Division I program can go wrong signing him."

Whether it’s Wednesday night in Gardner, Kan.; Friday night at Bishop Miege High School or sometime next week in Topeka, Kan., Hall’s time for Wyandotte will come to a close.

At a school that has the most prestige of any basketball school in the state, Hall’s impact has been felt. In a league with a number of stars this season, he’s stood out with the best of them.

Just don’t ask Trinity about it.

PHOTO 1: Trinity Hall warms up before the Wyandotte-Harmon game earlier this season at J.C. Harmon High School.

PHOTO 2: A day before Wyandotte's sub-state game agaisnt Gardner, Trinity Hall spends considerable more time after practice.

Three Wyandotte County teams will appear in the Bishop Miege bracket.

And the good news – neither of them will have to go through the 20-0 Bishop Miege Stags to get to state.

Harmon, Turner and Wyandotte will be in the B Bracket.

Harmon, coming into the bracket, is the #2 seed with a 17-3 record. They will play the Turner Golden Bears, the #7 seed who will come in with a 7-13 record. The game will be played this Wednesday night at J.C. Harmon High School at 7 p.m.

The game is a rematch from the first round of the Eudora Invitational, one which Harmon won 71-57 in a game where Harmon built a 30-point lead early.

Harmon appears to be the favorite entering the game, but the Hawks may have to overcome an injury to their best player De'Ontae Hooks and a bad memory from last year's state tournament.

The Hawks have a pretty similar type of game from last year, when they played Wyandotte. The Hawks were the two seed, Wyandotte the seventh seed.

After sweeping Wyandotte, the Hawks fell at the buzzer to Jerry Sipple and the Bulldogs.

If Hooks can't go, the load will fall on Jauan Wilson, Exavier Bass-Brooks and James Davenport, who all averaged at least 10 points this season. Turner's led by Chuck O'Neal and Austin Lewis.

Awaiting the winner of the Harmon-Turner grudge match is the winner of the Wyandotte-Gardner game.

Gardner enters the game 16-4, while Wyandotte is 7-13. The Bulldogs "won" a coin flip and will have to travel to Gardner, Kan., for the game.

Last year in the sub-state tournament, the Bulldogs found some magic, upsetting the Hawks and nearly upsetting the heavily favored St. Thomas Aquinas team.

Senior Trinity Hall will look to lead Wyandotte to a similar result.

If Wyandotte wins, an All Wyandotte County affair is guaranteed for the final game in the bracket, set for Friday, March 5 at Bishop Miege.
 

Note: The four listed above are the four finalists for The Kansas City Kansan's Player of the Year award.

With the regular season over and award season beginning, here are the Top 10 Games from the Kansas City, Kan., League this year. NOTE: Non-league games are not included, so that's why Harmon-Central or Sumner Academy-Hogan Prep are not included.

Also, home teams are in all caps.

10. SUMNER ACADEMY 75, Harmon 67

An early showdown between Wyandotte County's top two teams lived up to the hype. After Sumner Academy gained an early lead, Harmon fought back after halftime to tie the score. A big fourth-quarter run by the Sabres built Sumner's lead up to 14. Harmon narrowed the gap with late rally in the final minutes, but it came just short. James Davenport led the way for Harmon with 25 points. Davonte Chaney scored 23.

9. Wyandotte 82, Washington 78

In a non-league game, the two KCKL teams put on a show in the fourth place game of the Leavenworth tournament. Trinity Hall led the way for Wyandotte with 31 points, while Washington's Tra'Vaughn White also had a 30-point game. It was a back and forth affair that was high on drama throughout.

8. HARMON 51, Sumner Academy 44

While the game was uglier than Rosanne Barr singing the national anthem, Harmon's victory snapped the Sabres' 23-game winning streak in the Kansas City, Kan., League. The game was plagued by injuries – Sumner's Benny Parker and Chaney did not play, while Harmon's De'Ontae Hooks played on a hurt ankle that kept him out of last Friday's game against Washington.

7. Washington 75, SCHLAGLE 74

Consider this game the turning point for the Stallions and Wildcats seasons. Schlagle missed 19 free throws at home against the Wildcats. White scored 29 points against Washington's arch-rival. Washington was winless in the league at the time, while Schlagle was sitting above .500. Since then, the teams went in the opposite direction.

6. Harmon 63, WYANDOTTE 59

Don't let the low score fool you. The game was high on drama most of the way. Hall hit four three-point shots in the first half, but the Hawks' big man Davenport contained Hall in the second half. Harmon's Jauan Wilson led the way with 22 points. In the game's final minute, missed free throws from Harmon opened the door up for Wyandotte. The Bulldogs turned it over and the Hawks prevailed. It was the first game between the teams since Wyandotte knocked out Harmon at the buzzer in last season's sub-state tournament.

5. Wyandotte 93, WASHINGTON 91

Six days after the Leavenworth showdown, the two teams returned on the court and played each other at Washington High School. And two of the league's best four players put on another show. The Wildcats, led by 41 points from White, rallied from a second half deficit. But Hall's 30 points and key shooting from Terry Moore allowed Wyandotte to beat Washington twice in one week.

4. SUMNER ACADEMY 72, Washington 60

The 12-point margin Sumner won by doesn't reflect the close battle the teams put on. In the game's first three-and-a-half quarters, no team held a larger lead than five points. Two of the league's best stars – Reese Holliday for Sumner and White for Washington – led the way. White scored 21 points, with Holliday scoring 26. It was Chaney's nine points in the fourth that led Sumner to gain the double-digit lead. Kalen Allen for Washington hit four straight three-pointers in the game's third quarter. It was a packed crowd and a tense environment.

3. WASHINGTON 77, Harmon 74

The game validated why Metro Sports selected it for Friday's High School Game of the Week. Playing without Hooks and playing in the loudest environment I was a part of this season, the Hawks hung in there early. They were down just one-point after one and three points after two. Washington built an 18-point lead with two minutes left in the game. Harmon responded, forcing several Washington turnovers and with 13 seconds left, the Hawks had an opportunity for a tie game. But the ball was turned over, sending the Hawks to their third loss of the season. White scored 25 points for Washington, while Wilson scored 26 for Harmon.

2. Harmon 72, SCHLAGLE 71

In one corner, the powerhouse Hawks. In the other, the KCKL winless (at the time) Stallions. But the teams put on a classic. After Harmon built a 15-point second quarter lead, the Stallions responded. Behind Darius Hill's 23 points and Rozell Nunn's 15 points, the Stallions clawed back into the game and took a lead in the second half. With Hooks' 23 points and Exavier Bass-Brooks 17 points, the Hawks were able to build an eight-point lead in the final quarter. Schlagle came back again, taking the lead in the final minute after Jeff Jones converted a layup. With the score tied 71-71, both teams missed free throws and missed out on other scoring opportunities. Bass-Brooks drilled one free throw with 1.3 seconds left for the victory.

1. Sumner Academy 80, WASHINGTON 77

Like in many Washington games this season, a big rally was involved. This time, it was Washington who came back after falling behind in a big way. The Wildcats, who trailed by 17 in the second quarter, put a scare into the league-champion Sabres. White scored 26 points, Allen scored 18 points with three more three-pointers and Myles Hibler scored 17 points. But some unexpected players stepped up for the Sabres in the game. Anthony White scored 14 points, while Justin Strickland scored 10 and Alfred Belton scored nine. Twice in the fourth quarter, Washington narrowed the lead to one-point. However, the Wildcats could not quite get over the hump, as Holliday converted a shot in the final seconds to put the game away. By winning the game, Sumner clinched a share of its third straight KCKL championship. 

With the regular season finished, here's The Kansas City Kansan's First and Second All Kansas City, Kan., League Basketball Teams.

The decision was made by just me. Coaches in the league will release their own teams following the season. The names are listed in alphabetical order.

FIRST TEAM

• Trinity Hall, Wyandotte: Hall's game is one of the strongest in Wyandotte County. He does not have the benefit of having as much talent around him as those players at Sumner Academy, Harmon and Washington. Hall's a consistent threat inside and outside and is a tough coaching match-up for anyone.

• Reese Holliday, Sumner Academy: While Holliday had a rough game to end the season, his accomplishments still rank among the best who have played at Sumner Academy. He was the leading scorer of the Kansas City, Kan., League champion Sabres. He's a threat to hit 25 points each night.

• De'Ontae Hooks, Harmon: Perhaps no player on the first team improved on both sides quite like Hooks did. He filled a stat sheet and led the Hawks in scoring and was second in rebounding. He was one of the best consistent defenders Harmon had this season. When he found his shot, the opposition was in trouble.

• Benny Parker, Sumner Academy: Of the five on this list, Parker might be the most controversial. But watching Sumner Academy when he was injured this week showed how valuable Parker is to the Sabres. He's one of the fastest point guards in the city and he developed a deadly mid-range shot. He's a nightmare to match-up against on both defense and offense. Oh – and he's just a sophomore. Sumner's offense takes a big hit when Parker is not running point. Parker also did the best in shutting down other teams' best players.

• Tra'Vaughn White, Washington: Against Kansas City, Kan., League opponents, White only scored 29.3 points a game. That's it. That was not limited to just the teams below Washington in the standings. He scored at least 20 points against every KCKL opponent twice. He averaged 27.5 points against Harmon and over 23 points against Sumner. What's great about White is he doesn't settle for dumb outside shots – he hits the lane and draws contact.

SECOND TEAM

• Kalen Allen, Washington: If I needed someone in the league to knock down a wide open three-point shot, Allen would be in my top three list. Allen was a deadly shooter this season for the Wildcats. He turned in solid performances all season and saved the best for Sumner and Harmon.

• Davonte Chaney, Sumner Academy: If the first team could have had six players, Chaney would have been number six. His game is solid and he's still arguably the best defender in the league.

• James Davenport, Harmon: Last year, Davenport was often plagued by foul trouble and raw skills. This year, he turned into a double-double threat and turned in solid defensive performances against Trinity Hall and Reese Holliday. Davenport was very underrated to Harmon's success this season to league outsiders. Behind Hooks, Davenport was the second biggest reason Harmon concluded the season at 17-3.

• Darius Hill, Schlagle: Hill was Schlagle's leading scorer and despite just sitting 6-4, was one of the league's toughest rebounders. He was Schlagle's senior leader on the court this year.

• Jauan Wilson, Harmon: Known as Harmon's "face of the program," Wilson had a fine junior season for the Hawks. He's one of the team's better defenders and is one of the most dangerous guards when he penetrates the lane.

The Schlagle Stallions got off the schneid Friday night at Wyandotte High School.

The Stallions defeated Wyandotte 64-61, overcoming a six-point fourth quarter deficit to earn the team it's first Kansas City, Kan., League win of the season.

Darius Hill led Schlagle with 28 points, while Rozell Nunn added 14.

Wyandotte's Trinity Hall, playing his final game at Shublom Gymnasium, scored 20 points as Wyandotte finishes league play 2-6. Terry Moore added 12 for Wyandotte.

Since following the league, this is the closest and most intense player of the year race I can remember.

At times this year, there have been nine candidates that have stuck as possible player of the years. With one regular season week left, here are the four finalists for the award.

Included are three seniors and one junior who represent four of the league's five teams.

If you've read coverage all year, these names will be familiar to you. They are listed in alphabetical order, so don't try and get a hint of my list there.

Trinity Hall, Wyandotte (Senior): Regardless of stats and regardless of whether or not he ends up winning the award, I would still take Hall with my number one pick in a theoretical KCK fantasy draft. Standing at 6-7, Hall's outside shot is one that some guards wish they could have. For someone of his size, he has a great ability to drive inside and draw contact. Once at the line, he makes them more often than not. He's a solid rebounder and his presence alone allows opportunities for his teammates to thrive. Hall, at times, has been triple-teamed this season. With Hall, the story is more than the stats. You have to watch him in person to appreciate how great he is. No team drops off more without its star off the court than Wyandotte and Hall.

Reese Holliday, Sumner Academy (Senior): The McDonald's All-American nominee has been one of the county's biggest winners the past two seasons. He routinely pulls in double-doubles and like Hall, can hit the outside shot when asked too. Holliday's lost only five games in the past two seasons and this season, he's Sumner's leading scorer. Holliday has scored his points in bursts and he's often the fire behind key runs in various basketball games the Sabres have played this season. He's a big impact player and recently announced his plan to attend the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

De'Ontae Hooks, Harmon (Senior): There may not be a more interesting story than Hooks and his two years at Harmon. After struggling to begin the season and after a first season filled with injuries, Hooks has lived up to the hype given to him. So far this season, he's averaging 21.6 points a game and about 8 rebounds a game. He's a versatile player that can play multiple positions on the court. His defense has improved from last year and he averages almost 3 steals a game. Moving back to KCK from Houston over two years ago, Hooks has led Harmon on a 12-game winning streak. Hooks had a 40-point, 12-rebound game against Schlagle earlier this year. Like Holliday, Hooks is a McDonald's All-American nominee.

Tra'Vaughn White, Washington (Junior): Of the guys on this list, no one has put up as many eye-popping stats as White has this season. In three games against Wyandotte this season, he scored 41 points, 30 points and 30 points. Against Schlagle, he scored 32 points and 29 points. Against Harmon, he put 30 points on the scoreboard earlier this season. Meanwhile, against Sumner, he "only" scored 26 points and 22 points. But White's game is also above stats. He doesn't rely on the three-point shot as many high school guards do. He's not afraid to drive inside and take contact. He's also a great floor leader.

This week will be a huge one in terms of who takes home this award.

Hall can add onto his case this week against Schlagle in his final home game. White can possibly shut the door on the award with a great performance against Harmon.

But Holliday and Hooks have the best opportunities to make a final statement. Sumner Academy plays the state's top team in Bishop Miege Tuesday night and then Harmon Wednesday night.

Hooks, meanwhile, will lead Harmon against Sumner and on the road in the hostile environment of Washington High School. Two solid performances and leading Harmon to a share of a league title could bump Hooks' resume to the top.

In front of a packed crowd at J.C. Harmon High School, the Harmon Hawks knocked off the Wyandotte Bulldogs 95-74 to stretch their winning streak to 12-games.

The Hawks are 16-2 on the season and would win a share of the Kansas City, Kan., League if they were to prevail against Sumner Academy and Washington next week.

Here are photos from the Harmon-Wyandotte varsity, junior varsity and freshman games. Harmon won all three games.