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Alief Taylor's Sean Kongolo (Sr. G)
Matt Powell (VYPE)
Brothers, Nick (Jr. F) & Sean KongoloMatt Powell (VYPE)
Last year, Kongolo led Taylor in both scoring and distribution, compiling over 250 points, 77 assists, and 40 steals. Despite a 10–21 finish that left the Lions just short of the postseason, there were clear signs of growth for a roster that leaned heavily on youth. Head coach Frank Castanon believes that experience will pay dividends as the team looks to turn a corner this season.
In Sean’s case, much of that steady progression has been guided by those closest to him.
“He [Nathan] showed me the commitment and work ethic that’s needed to reach that next level,” Kongolo said. “Playing hard in front of a crowd comes from the workouts and practices that take place when no one is watching. That’s the biggest thing I took from him.”
That same accountability extends to his bond with Nick, as the brothers prepare to share the court again.
“There’s a built-in connection between the two of us,” he said. “When we’re at games, if one of us is playing down, it’s a little easier to talk about it and address how to fix it. We’ve played together for years, so that helps us both get better where we need to.”
Kongolo’s improvement has also come from refining his own craft.
Matt Powell (VYPE)
“Accuracy has been something that I’ve worked to make more consistent in my shooting ability,” he said. “That just comes with repetition and situational awareness that you learn from practice.”
Looking ahead, Kongolo has his eyes on the next level.
“Of course, I’m planning to go to college either way, but the intention is to get a scholarship to play ball at that stage,” he said. “If I can keep my foot on the gas, then I’m hoping to get a commitment soon.”
And as Taylor’s new campaign tips off, it’s clear that the Lions’ resurgence — much like the Kongolo story itself — is still being written, one drive and one jump shot at a time.
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Iowa Colony Jr. QB Carson White
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Here are the UTMB Football Offensive Players of the Year, recognizing some of the region's most explosive weapons.
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Sean Simon -- La Porte Football
Photo taken/provided by: Carlyle Henry (Premier Sports Photos)
Despite drawing a tough matchup in the opening round of the playoffs against a surging Weiss squad — which went on to reach the Regional Semifinals — La Porte’s 9-2 season and second consecutive undefeated District 11-5A-D1 title speak for themselves.
Building on a monumental breakout campaign in 2024, sophomore tailback Sean Simon somehow elevated his game even further this fall, finishing just shy of 2,200 rushing yards — a new single-season program record — to go with 25 touchdowns. While credit is certainly due to LP’s stout offensive line, it’s Simon’s blend of vision, burst, and physicality that makes him one of the most difficult backs in the region to contain.
Recently named District Offensive Player of the Year, Simon’s ascent — and La Porte’s trajectory as a whole — is far from finished. The four-star recruit continues to solidify his status as one of the most intriguing prospects in the Class of 2028, already holding offers from Vanderbilt, Houston, TCU, Tennessee, and others.
Malachi Gamble -- Dickinson Football
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
Dickinson’s offense has been nothing short of electric this fall, piling up points at a staggering pace and powering the Gators to an unblemished 13-0 record. At the center of that surge is Malachi Gamble, the defending District 24-6A Co-MVP whose impact continues to define the team’s identity.
The senior running back has helped fuel a unit averaging more than 50 points per game, most recently showcased in Dickinson’s commanding 55–16 dispatching of Strake Jesuit. Now, Gamble and the Gators prepare for a marquee showdown with North Shore in Friday’s 6A-D1 Region III Final. Should they upend the historic H-Town heavyweight, Dickinson would clinch its first State Final Four appearance in nearly 50 years — the program’s only other trip coming during the 1977 3A State Championship season.
As the stakes rise, so does Gamble’s influence, anchoring a campaign that’s pushing Dickinson into truly rare territory.
Carson White -- Iowa Colony Football
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
The Ray Garza-led Pioneers have produced yet another enthralling performance this fall, echoing the excitement of 2024 — and it all starts with the young man under center.
Iowa Colony quarterback Carson White has combined remarkable consistency with the ability to create big plays at any moment. That was on full display during the Pioneers’ resilient 31–30 win over Brenham last Friday, when White threw two touchdown passes to his favorite target, Jayden Warren (Texas A&M commit), before sealing the victory himself with a rushing touchdown just under seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.
Through the season, the junior signal-caller has amassed over 1,800 passing yards and 31 touchdown passes, alongside 580 rushing yards and 14 more scores — numbers that cement his case for back-to-back District 9-5A-DII Offensive MVP honors.
As Iowa Colony enters the Region III Final this week, the Pioneers carry a 12–1 record, with their lone setback coming against district rival and defending 5A-D2 State Champion Randle — a team that once again stands between IC and a UIL Final Four appearance. Considering September’s 49–42 meeting, the two programs are poised for another offensive showcase when they meet Friday at 7:00 PM at Legacy Stadium.
Under these high-stakes conditions, expect White to continue thriving in the spotlight.
Ja'Maurey Champion -- Pearland Football
Matthew Ogle (VYPE)
The Oilers’ ground game was undeniably a defining feature of Pearland’s season, and it was unquestionably bolstered by Ja’Maurey Champion, whose presence often felt like a highlight reel in motion.
The team’s lead back rushed for 1,610 yards and 25 touchdowns this fall, earning unanimous first-team, all-district honors while guiding Pearland to an 11-1 record and an undefeated District 22-6A title. Though the Oilers’ season ended in the 6A-D1 Area Round against Dickinson, Champion’s impact was unmistakable, providing the spark that carried his team throughout the year.
As the senior enters the next stage of his journey, his recruitment window remains wide open. Programs in search of a dynamic, versatile running back will find no shortage of reasons to pursue him, as Champion’s combination of finesse and toughness makes him a talent capable of making an immediate impact at the collegiate level.
Jaylen Addai -- Shadow Creek Football
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
Four-star wideout Jaylen Addai — son of former Indianapolis Colts running back Joseph Addai — emerged as one of Shadow Creek’s brightest revelations this fall. Still only a sophomore, he already retains offers from major programs such as Texas A&M, Miami, Texas Tech, and Houston, a testament to the early buzz surrounding his talent.
By season’s end, Addai hauled in 38 passes for 771 yards and 14 touchdowns, leading the Sharks in all three categories and earning a conspicuous, well-deserved District 22-6A Offensive Newcomer of the Year nod. His production was the X-factor for a Shadow Creek squad that closed 2025 by going 8–4 overall, before bowing out of the 6A-D2 playoffs to C.E. King — a team now set to face Summer Creek in the Region III Final.
And while the Sharks’ postseason run concluded earlier than hoped, the foundation ahead remains promising. With phenoms like Addai in their ranks, optimism is more than justified as Shadow Creek turns the page toward next season.
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