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<p>As the 2025–26 season rapidly approaches, we here at PGH want to take a moment to shine a spotlight on high school programs across the great state of Kansas. These articles will explore teams, coaches, players, and the conferences they compete in. In this edition, we turn our attention to the Basehor Lady Bobcats</p>
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<p>The Lady Pirates compete in the United Kansas Conference and finished last season with a 9-7 conference record. Overall, they posted an 10-11 record in the 2024–25 season and are poised to continue their competitiveness this year. The team is led by Coach Jason Tatkenhorst, who is in his 13th year in leadership for the program. </p>
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<p><strong><em>Key Returners: </em></strong></p>
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<p><strong>Sarah McKnight</strong> - A senior wing with excellent basketball IQ and skill, she excels as a deep threat from beyond the arc. Unselfish and team-oriented, she consistently looks to make the extra pass, while also finishing effectively around the rim. Her versatility and decision-making make her a valuable contributor on both ends of the floor.</p>
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<p><strong>Aliya VanDonge</strong> - A junior wing and returning starter, Aliya was a key contributor for the Bobcats last season. She is a solid defender, capable of knocking down shots from beyond the arc and finishing effectively around the basket. Unselfish and highly coachable, Aliya's work ethic and team-first mindset stand out. Expect her to take on an even more significant role this season.</p>
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<p>[player_tooltip player_id='905744' first='Alaina' last='Schwisow'] - A senior combo guard, Alaina brings energy, effort, and leadership—exactly what you want from an upperclassman. She rebounds and defends effectively from the backcourt, while also attacking the basket with a strong downhill mentality. Alaina's ability to create opportunities for both herself and her teammates makes her a dynamic and impactful presence on the floor.</p>
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<p>[player_tooltip player_id='822714' first='Kinley' last='Christopher'] - A senior post player, Christopher was among the team leaders in both points and rebounds last season. She ranked second in the league in blocks, highlighting her presence as a dynamic force in the paint. Equally effective on both ends of the floor, Christopher combines strong defensive instincts with an impactful offensive game, making her a key contributor for the team.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1264441' first='Delaney' last='Wittkop']</strong> - A sophomore combo guard, Delaney made a significant impact as a freshman and continues to impress with her fearless, competitive nature. She is physical, smart, and strong, with excellent ball IQ that allows her to excel on both ends of the floor. Delaney is a true two-way player—coming off a standout freshman season in which she was second on the team in scoring, first in assists and steals, and led the team in three-point makes. Her versatility and intensity make her a key contributor for the Lady Bobcats.</p>
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<p><strong>Claire Fitzgerald</strong> - A junior with excellent length and versatility for Basehor, Claire has played positions ranging from point guard to post throughout her time with the program. She demonstrates the ability to handle the ball and create opportunities off the bounce, while also using her size to establish strong post position and play effectively with her back to the basket. Highly coachable and selfless, Claire brings a team-first mentality to every aspect of her game.</p>
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<p><strong>First Game:</strong> December 2nd vs Gardner Edgerton @ Home</p>
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As the 2025–26 season rapidly approaches, we here at PGH want to take a moment to shine a spotlight on high school programs across the great state of Kansas. These articles will explore teams, coaches, players, and the conferences they compete in. In this edition, we turn our attention to the Basehor Lady Bobcats
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