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Posted: Feb 26, 2026 11:14 AMUpdated: Feb 26, 2026 12:14 PM
Bullpups Open Substate Play Against Halstead
The postseason tips off tonight for the Caney Valley Bullpups, and coach Matt Washburn’s squad enters substate quarterfinal play riding momentum from a road win over Riverton last week. The Bullpups have had six days to prepare for Halstead, a team they have not faced this season, as they meet in a single-elimination matchup at Caney Valley High School.
Washburn said much of the preparation has centered on film study and defensive planning. Halstead presents a contrast in style, utilizing a 1-3-1 zone defense and featuring a 6-foot-7 post player — elements Caney Valley has not encountered often this season. “Our team philosophy is playing defense,” Washburn said. “We want to see what they have personnel-wise, what they want to do, and try to shut that down.” With no common opponents between the teams, Washburn acknowledged the matchup brings unfamiliar challenges.
The Bullpups aim to dictate tempo. Washburn said Caney Valley prefers a faster pace and scoring in the 60s or 70s, while Halstead is more comfortable in lower-scoring games in the 40s and 50s. “We want to get the ball out and run,” he said. “The big thing is we just need to shut them down and take away what they want to do, and we’ll figure out a way to score.” The winner advances to face either Neodesha or Minneapolis in Tuesday’s substate semifinal. Washburn said his focus remains on the immediate task. “I try to go one game at a time,” he said. You can hear the entire interview with Coach Matt Washburn HERE.
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