KRES Boys Coach of the Year Kenny Wyatt Reflects on State Championship Team

Photo courtesy of Colin Schowe, Alpha Media Moberly

For the fifth time in his storied coaching career, Kenny Wyatt is the KRES Boys’ Coach of the Year. Wyatt’s Salisbury Panthers compiled a 29-3 record to claim their second-ever state title. Wyatt compared this year’s championship squad to the previous one in 2013.

Wyatt’s lone KRES All-Star this season was Cooper Francis, who was a driving force on the championship team. He averaged 19 points, six rebounds and four assists per game. Wyatt said Francis’ journey to the championship was a rewarding one.

Francis led the Panthers in scoring in both the semifinal and championship games. While Francis’ contributions were key, Wyatt said it took a group effort to raise the championship trophy.

Salisbury had to contend with the passing of a teammate and friend in London White the week of the Show-Me Showdown. Wyatt credited the team’s tight bond in rallying together for White.

The Panthers entered the fourth quarter in both Show-Me Showdown games tied. They proceeded to match White’s number 20 by scoring 20 points in each fourth quarter on their way to the championship.