SHAWNEE — Excellence has become a tradition for the Stidham Redhawks.
The Stidham 7th and 8th grade boys basketball team capped off a remarkable season February 12–14 at North Rock Creek High School in Shawnee by capturing the ORES Division IV State Championship, marking their third consecutive Gold Ball and finishing the season undefeated.
For head coach Dane Yandell and the Redhawks, the championship run was a showcase of teamwork, determination, and dominance.
Stidham opened the tournament with authority in the quarterfinals, defeating Belfonte 43–23. The Redhawks controlled the pace from the opening tip, playing aggressive defense and executing efficiently on offense to secure the comfortable win.
In the semifinals, Stidham continued its strong play, defeating Justice 52–26. The Redhawks once again proved why they were one of the most feared teams in the tournament, overwhelming their opponent with relentless defense and balanced scoring.
The championship game against Kenwood brought the excitement fans had been waiting for, but Stidham rose to the occasion once more. The Redhawks delivered a powerful performance to secure the title with a 46–28 victory, completing a perfect tournament run and cementing their place at the top of ORES Division IV basketball.
Leading the charge was Tandon Yandell, who was named the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament. Yandell’s leadership, scoring ability, and court awareness helped guide the Redhawks throughout the tournament.
Joining him on the 2026 Division IV All-Tournament Team were teammates Ryley Thompson, Ryan Layman, and Bryson Patterson, a testament to the depth of talent and teamwork that powered Stidham’s championship run.
The Redhawks’ success is nothing new. With the 2026 title, Stidham has now captured ORES Division IV State Championships in the following seasons:
• 2012–2013
• 2013–2014
• 2015–2016
• 2023–2024
• 2024–2025
• 2025–2026 This latest championship continues a remarkable stretch for the program and reinforces Stidham’s reputation as one of the premier teams in ORES basketball.
The Redhawks roster reflects a group of young athletes who play for each other and their community. Team members include Ryley Thompson, Bryson Patterson, Ryan Layman, Ethan Hampton, Jaxyn McIntosh, Kutter Anderson, Ely Freeman, Tandon Yandell, Axel Lewis, Haven Cook, Jace Clayton, Trentin Cummings, Junior Jennings, Kai Edwards, and Sonny Dabbs.
The team is guided by head coach Dane Yandell and assistant coach Trett Yandell, with the support of Superintendent Angie Yandell.
From the first whistle of the season to the final buzzer of the championship game, the Redhawks played with heart, hustle, and pride. Their undefeated season and third straight state championship stand as a testament to their hard work and commitment to excellence.
For the Stidham Redhawks, the Gold Ball has become more than a trophy — it’s a symbol of a program built on dedication, teamwork, and a winning tradition that continues to soar.
And if this season was any indication, the Redhawks’ flight is far from over.
