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Boys athlete of the year: From water boy to historic career, Derek Tonjes built a legacy

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A Lee Enterprises, Incorporated newspaper. Majority shareholder: David Hoffmann, Hoffmann Media Group.

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BOYS ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Boys athlete of the year: From water boy to historic career, Derek Tonjes built a legacy

• Luke Mullin | Lincoln Journal Star
• Jul 5, 2026
• Jul 5, 2026
• 0
• 4 min to read

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Ashland-Greenwood's Derek Tonjes helped lead the Bluejays to their third Class C-1 state championship in four seasons and finished his career with more than 1,400 points and 500 rebounds.

Arthur Trickett-Wile | Lincoln Journal Star

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Boys athlete of the year: Other notable candidates from 2025-26

Previous Journal Star Boys Athlete of the Year winners

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Journal Star boys athlete of the year Derek Tonjes emerged as one of the state's most efficient players during a senior season that culminated in another state championship for Ashland-Greenwood.

Arthur Trickett-Wile | Lincoln Journal Star

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As Ashland-Greenwood's quarterback, Derek Tonjes threw for nearly 3,000 yards and 38 touchdowns while helping the Bluejays reach the state quarterfinals for a fourth consecutive season.

Arthur Trickett-Wile | Lincoln Journal Star

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Photos: Sights from Championship Saturday at boys state basketball tournament

Norfolk Catholic’s Gavin Schutt (4) reacts tearfully after a loss during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic beat Norfolk Catholic 59-50 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Norfolk Catholic head coach Kevin Manzer reacts during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic beat Norfolk Catholic 59-50 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Norfolk Catholic’s Brayden Kosch (15) puts up two over Bergan Catholic’s Trey Mooney (1) during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic beat Norfolk Catholic 59-50 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Norfolk Catholic’s Breckon Feilmeier (1) tries three during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic beat Norfolk Catholic 59-50 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Bergan Catholic’s Gavin Baker (42) puts up two over Norfolk Catholic’s Callen Marshall (2) during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic beat Norfolk Catholic 59-50 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Bergan Catholic’s Cale Sheets (3) hoists the trophy with the fan section during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic beat Norfolk Catholic 59-50 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Bergan Catholic’s Cale Sheets (3) hoists the trophy with the fan section during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic beat Norfolk Catholic 59-50 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Bergan Catholic’s Gavin Dean (5) “hits the ‘scuba’” with Nolan Paulsen (0) during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic beat Norfolk Catholic 59-50 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Bergan Catholic’s Gavin Baker (42) swings his net during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic beat Norfolk Catholic 59-50 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Bergan Catholic head coach Ryan Mlnarik holds up his piece of the net during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic beat Norfolk Catholic 59-50 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Bergan Catholic head coach Ryan Mlnarik reacts during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic led Norfolk Catholic 31-21 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Norfolk Catholic’s Callen Marshall (2) tries three over Bergan Catholic’s Gavin Baker (42)during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic led Norfolk Catholic 31-21 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Norfolk Catholic head coach Kevin Manzer addresses his players during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic led Norfolk Catholic 31-21 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Norfolk Catholic head coach Kevin Manzer addresses his players during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic led Norfolk Catholic 31-21 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Norfolk Catholic’s Leighton Burbach (3) tries two over Bergan Catholic’s Gavin Baker (42) during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic led Norfolk Catholic 31-21 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Bergan Catholic’s Gavin Baker (42) shoots over Norfolk Catholic’s Leighton Burbach (3) during the NSAA Class C-2 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Bergan Catholic led Norfolk Catholic 31-21 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Elkhorn North’s Sutton Piatkowski (34) tries for two over Scottsbluff’s Keon Delgado (24) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Scottsbluff’s Keon Delgado (24) tries for two over Elkhorn North’s Sutton Piatkowski (34) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Elkhorn North’s Braylon Jackson (4) tries for two over Scottsbluff’s Esai Sabala (3) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Elkhorn North’s Nike Orgilbold (13) Scottsbluff’s Rylee Meininger (1) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Scottsbluff head coach Scott Gullion addresses his players during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Scottsbluff student fans distract the free-throw shooter during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Elkhorn North’s Sutton Piatkowski (34) tries for two over Scottsbluff’s Keon Delgado (24) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Elkhorn North head coach Andy King addresses his players during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Scottsbluff’s Caleb Burda (0) and Oliver Carpenter (13) celebrate after the buzzer during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff beat Elkhorn North 68-56.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Scottsbluff’s Nate Kelley (5) celebrates with Rylee Meininger (1) after the buzzer during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff beat Elkhorn North 68-56.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Elkhorn North’s Carson Mahnke (11) Flynn Fickbohm (1) and Drew Meyer (32) greet Scottsbluff after the loss during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff beat Elkhorn North 68-56.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Scottsbluff’s Nate Kelley (5) whirls the net after cutting it down from the rim during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff beat Elkhorn North 68-56.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Scottsbluff’s Nate Kelley (5) hoists the trophy on the way to greet the fans with Oliver Carpenter (13) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff beat Elkhorn North 68-56.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Scottsbluff’s Rylee Meininger (1) drives the lane against Elkhorn North’s Jase Reynolds (2) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Scottsbluff’s Caleb Burda (0) jumps for three during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Elkhorn North’s Kellen Murphy (23) drives the lane against Scottsbluff’s Nate Kelley (5) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff led Elkhorn North 35-24 going into the half.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Scottsbluff’s Nate Kelley (5) attempts a shot during a Class B state tournament game March 14 at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE, Journal Star file photo

Elkhorn North head coach Andy King reacts during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff beat Elkhorn North 68-56.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Elkhorn North’s Braylon Jackson (4) looks for a pass around Scottsbluff’s Esai Sabala (3) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff beat Elkhorn North 68-56.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Elkhorn North’s Braylon Jackson (4) leaps at a shot by Scottsbluff’s Nate Kelley (5) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff beat Elkhorn North 68-56.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Elkhorn North’s Kellen Murphy (23) tries for two over Scottsbluff’s Caleb Burda (0) during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff beat Elkhorn North 68-56.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

The Elkhorn North fan section tosses pom-poms during the NSAA Class B championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Scottsbluff beat Elkhorn North 68-56.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge’s Dane Meyer (1) and during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge beat McCool Junction North 57-39.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge’s Chase Luther (2) lays up two during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge beat McCool Junction North 57-39.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge’s Nathan Tomcak (3) celebrates his three during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge beat McCool Junction North 57-39.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge’s Andre Martin (20) tries two under McCool Junction’s Carson McDonald (23) and Ja Soukup (25) during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge led McCool Junction North 27-18.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge sport gold medals and hold pieces of the cut nets during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge beat McCool Junction North 57-39.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

McCool Junction’s Dylan Gonnerman (33) Jameson Weiss (35) and Carter Mierau (21) leave the court after the loss during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge beat McCool Junction North 57-39.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge’s Andre Martin (20) lays up two during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge beat McCool Junction North 57-39.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge head coach Kevin Janata dons his Burger King crown during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge beat McCool Junction North 57-39.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

The Howells-Dodge boys team are Burger King coronated by the student fan section as Nathan Tomcak (3) lifts the plaque during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge beat McCool Junction North 57-39.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge beat McCool Junction North 57-39.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge’s Dane Meyer (1) whirls the net after cutting it down from the rim during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge beat McCool Junction North 57-39.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

A member of the McCool Junction team folds towels during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge led McCool Junction North 27-18.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge head coach Kevin Janata calls to his players during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge led McCool Junction North 27-18.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge’s Ethan Prusa (14) shoots against McCool Junction’s Colby Yates (10) during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge led McCool Junction North 27-18.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

McCool Junction head coach Jabe Wurtz calls to his players during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge led McCool Junction North 27-18.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge’s Andre Martin (20) looks to the net under defense by McCool Junction’s Ja Soukup (25) during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge led McCool Junction North 27-18.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Howells-Dodge’s Dane Meyer (1) looks for a move around McCool Junction’s Jaxon McDonald (24) during the NSAA Class D-1 championship boys state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Howells-Dodge led McCool Junction North 27-18.

ARTHUR H. TRICKETT-WILE,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's LeVonte Crockett (5) and Lincoln Southwest's Makkiah Sanders (10) try to steal the ball fro Papillion-La Vista South's Levi Webb (12) during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's Uzziah Sanders (2) tips a pass away from Papillion-La Vista South's Brady Alderson (1) during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest’s Kobi Kerr reacts as he looks up at the big screen replaying a foul he was called for during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest’s Kobi Kerr reacts after taking an offsensive charge during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Papillion-La Vista South's Connor Falkinburg (25) celebrates after hitting a three-point shot over Lincoln Southwest during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest players run off the floor after defeating Papillion-La Vista South to win the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest’s Kobi Kerr dives for a loose ball during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's Uzziah Sanders (2) drives to the rim against Papillion-La Vista South's Connor Falkinburg (25) and Grant Beckenhauer (23) during the Class A state championship game March 14 at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star file photo

Lincoln Southwest's Crayton Meyer (3) goes up for a shot against Papillion-La Vista South's Connor Falkinburg (25) during the Class A state championship game Saturday at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's Dakari Wilson (30) pulls up to shoot from beyond the arc over Papillion-La Vista South defenders during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's Uzziah Sanders (2) shoots for Papillion-La Vista South's Connor Falkinburg (25) during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Papillion-La Vista South's Levi Webb (12) sits on the bench as the Titans wait for their second place medals during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest’s Kobi Kerr reacts after missing a free-throw during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest head coach Alex Bahe shouts instructions to his teammates during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Papillion-La Vista South's Connor Falkinburg (25) falls after Lincoln Southwest’s Kobi Kerr takes a charge during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest players head to the student section to celebrate their win over Papillion-La Vista South in the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest players head to the student section to celebrate their win over Papillion-La Vista South in the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's LeVonte Crockett (5) takes a moment to himself after the silver hawks win the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest coach Alex Bahe embraces Makkiah Sanders (10) after winning the Class A championship March 14 at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star file photo

Lincoln Southwest's LeVonte Crockett (5) is tackled by Keondre Hughes-Williams (13) after winning the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest’s Kobi Kerr celebrates with his teammates after securing the win over Papillion-La Vista South in the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's Uzziah Sanders (2) rushes back to his teammates to celebrate their win over Papillion-La Vista South during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's Uzziah Sanders (2) rushes back to his teammates to celebrate their win over Papillion-La Vista South during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest players rush back to their teammates after defeating Papillion-La Vista South to win the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Papillion-La Vista South's Levi Webb (12) and Lincoln Southwest’s Kobi Kerr reacts after a foul is called during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's Makkiah Sanders (10) and Kobi Kerr (32) celebrate during the Class A state championship game against Papillion-La Vista South on Saturday at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest Kobi Kerr (32) attempts to dunk the ball over Papillion-La Vista South players during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's Dakari Wilson (30) shoots from beyond the arc to score three over Papillion-La Vista South during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's Dakari Wilson (30) reacts after hitting a three-point shot over Papillion-La Vista South during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's Makkiah Sanders (10) defends Papillion-La Vista South's Levi Webb (12) as he shoots for two during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Papillion-La Vista South's Brady Alderson (1) scores again t Lincoln Southwest's Dakari Wilson (30) during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Papillion-La Vista South's Levi Webb (12) scores a layup past Lincoln Southwest's LeVonte Crockett (5) during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Lincoln Southwest's LeVonte Crockett (5) reacts as a time out is called by Papillion-La Vista South during the Class A championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

The Ashland-Greenwood bench reacts as they score two during the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood's Cal Kissinger (5) reacts after hitting three from beyond the arc during the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

DC West head coach Ryder Songer stresses as his team reacts as Ashland-Greenwood reagins possession of the ball during the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood's Cooper Westerhold (11) falls after he is blocked by DC West's Zane Wohlers (2) and Trey Olsen (5) during the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood players celebrate after defeating DC West to win the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood players celebrate after defeating DC West to win the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood players celebrate after defeating DC West to win the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood celebrates after winning the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood's Derek Tonjes (23) backs down DC West's Nolan Asher (13) during the Class C-1 state championship game Saturday at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood's Logan Fangmeyer (10) and Cal Kissinger (5) combine to block a layup by DC West's Zane Wohlers (2) during the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood's Barrett Kitrell (40) reacts after scoring over DC West during the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood's Barrett Kitrell (40) defends DC West's Trey Schieber (1) as he scores two during the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood fans toss powder into the air after their team scores their first point during the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood's Logan Fangmeyer (10) secures a loose ball as he collides with DC West's Trent Alexander (4) during the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Ashland-Greenwood's Barrett Kitrell (40) tries to rebound the ball against DC West's Zane Wohlers (2) during the Class C-1 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Elgin Public/Pope John’s Max Henn (24) walks off the court after being struck in the face during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Archangels Catholic’s Gavin Geilenkirchen (12) embraces Tucker Czarnick (32) after winning the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Elgin Public/Pope John’s Jarek Erickson (21) has his shot swatted down by Archangels Catholic’s Kellan Mundil (24) during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Archangels Catholic’s Tucker Czarnick (32) tries to keep the ball in play after falling over the back of Elgin Public/Pope John’s Evin Pelster (12) during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Archangels Catholic’s Gavin Geilenkirchen (12) high fives Tucker Czarnick after scoring during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Archangels Catholic’s Brenden Johannes (21) dunks the ball during the Class D-2 state championship game against Elgin/PJ on Saturday at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star

The Archangels Catholic bench celebrates after Tucker Czarnick, not pictured, dunks the ball during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Elgin Public/Pope John’s Evin Pelster (12) and Jarek Erickson (21) defend Archangels Catholic’s Kellan Mundil (24) as he goes up to score two during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Elgin Public/Pope John’s Karson Kallhoff (4) slips and falls while going after a loose ball during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Public/Pope John’s Jarek Erickson (21) attempts a shot during the Class D-2 state championship game March 14 at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA, Journal Star file photo

Archangels Catholic’s Kellan Mundil (24) passes a loose ball to his teammate Ethan Wieseler (20) during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Elgin Public/Pope John’s Max Henn (24) and Michael Selting (2) vie for a rebound against Archangels Catholic’s Tucker Czarnick (32) during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Archangels Catholic head coach Eric Kessler jumps into the air while shooting to his team during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Archangels Catholic’s Tucker Czarnick (32) vies for a rebound against Elgin Public/Pope John’s Max Henn (24) during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Elgin Public/Pope John’s Jarek Erickson (21) shoots over Archangels Catholic’s Ethan Wieseler (20) and Brenden Johannes (21)during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

Archangels Catholic fans cheer before tip off during the Class D-2 championship state basketball game on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

KENNETH FERRIERA,Journal Star

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Ashland-Greenwood's Derek Tonjes helped lead the Bluejays to their third Class C-1 state championship in four seasons and finished his career with more than 1,400 points and 500 rebounds.

• Arthur Trickett-Wile | Lincoln Journal Star

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Journal Star boys athlete of the year Derek Tonjes emerged as one of the state's most efficient players during a senior season that culminated in another state championship for Ashland-Greenwood.

• Arthur Trickett-Wile | Lincoln Journal Star

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As Ashland-Greenwood's quarterback, Derek Tonjes threw for nearly 3,000 yards and 38 touchdowns while helping the Bluejays reach the state quarterfinals for a fourth consecutive season.

• Arthur Trickett-Wile | Lincoln Journal Star

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IrelandUruguay, Eastern Republic ofUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuela, Bolivarian Republic ofViet Nam, Socialist Republic ofWallis and Futuna IslandsWestern SaharaYemenZambia, Republic ofZimbabwe

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