2026 Sports in Kansas Defensive Player of the Year – Bella Bouddhara, Andover (5A) Bella Bouddhara, a junior, continued to establish herself as one of the top players in Kansas, bringing elite defensive intensity and versatility to a strong Andover team. Bouddhara averaged 19.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.8 steals, and 2.5 assists per game, impacting the game on both ends while consistently taking on top matchups defensively. Her ability to apply pressure, create turnovers, and guard at a high level made her one of the most disruptive defenders in 5A. Already surpassing 1,100 career points, Bouddhara is a two-time AVCTL MVP and proven leader, helping guide Andover to a third-place finish this season. “We played as a family and pushed each other to get better every day. No matter how competitive we got, we always played selflessly for the team.” Bouddhara credits her development to coaches Craig and Aaron Nicholson, along with Coach Alexander, for pushing her defensively and helping build her confidence as a leader, as well as Coach Zack Siegrist for developing her love for the game. With multiple college offers including Wichita State and still more to accomplish, Bouddhara continues to be one of the rising stars in Kansas basketball. #sportsinkansas