The West Central basketball team has been named the Argus Leader’s 2025-26 boys team of the year, securing 77.57% of the votes cast by readers. The Trojans had a remarkable season, achieving a perfect 25-0 record and clinching the Class A state championship. They defeated the defending champions, Sioux Falls Christian, twice during the season, including in the state title game. Under the leadership of head coach Dave Hollenbeck, who joined the program from St. Thomas More, West Central celebrated its first state championship in 25 years. Key players for the Trojans included senior Will Kuhl, who averaged 15.8 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, along with juniors Conor Mebius and Hayden Heier, who contributed 18.4 points and 10.0 points per game, respectively.
Why It Matters
The recognition of West Central as the boys team of the year highlights the program’s significant turnaround and competitive success in recent years. Achieving a perfect season and a state championship underscores the effectiveness of Hollenbeck’s coaching strategy and the talent of the players. Historically, high school basketball in the region has seen fluctuating team performances, making this achievement particularly noteworthy. The victory against a defending champion also signifies a shift in the competitive landscape of Class A basketball in the area, suggesting a potential rise in West Central’s prominence in future seasons.
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