The Kansas Basketball Coaches Assn. named Free State seniors Lauren Kimball and Christian Ballard to its Class 6A all-state second teams.

Free State senior Jenna Brantley, along with Lawrence High senior Chance Riley, received honorable mention.

“I think the outcome of state was one of the best things we could have asked for,” Kimball said of Free State’s third-place finish. “Wichita Heights was a great team, obviously. It was a privilege for us to play them.

Wichita Heights (24-1), which won the state tournament in Emporia and defeated Free State, was ranked No. 9 in the nation, according to the USA Today Super 25 basketball rankings.

Kimball credited a different style of play at Free State (18-7) last season, especially in the state tournament.

“I think we moved the ball around more,” Kimball said. “Last year (2005-2006), it was me or Jenna scoring about 20 every game. This year, we had more people in double digits.”

Ballard’s nomination was particularly interesting, considering his start to the season wasn’t spectacular. It wasn’t bad by any means, but once the Firebirds (13-12) reached sub-state, Ballard noticeably dominated opposing teams.

“He played with a lot more fire in those last 10 games of the season,” Free State coach Chuck Law said of Ballard. “Something clicked with him.”

Other area honorees: Scott Samsel, Wellsville, Class 3A honorable mention; Victor Ojeleye, Ottawa, Class 5A second team; Erica Patton, Wellsville, Class 3A honorable mention; Ali Pistora, Tonganoxie, Class 4A second team; Brooke Pryor, Santa Fe Trail, Class 4A second team.