McKinney ISD is highlighting nine returning student-athletes who are projected to play key roles for their respective teams in the 2026-27 season. The list includes players from football, wrestling, and basketball who demonstrated strong performances during the previous academic year.
Ugo Anosike, a senior linebacker for McKinney Boyd football, recorded 68 tackles, six sacks, and 12 tackles for loss last season. He was named to the all-district first team and has begun drawing college recruiting interest. The Broncos return more than half of their defensive unit, aiming to build on that experience.
In wrestling, Cael Brubaker of McKinney Boyd qualified for the Class 6A state tournament for each year of his high school career. He finished sixth at 113 pounds as a freshman, fourth at 120 pounds as a sophomore, and earned second place in the 132-pound bracket as a junior.
He defeated top-ranked Mason Milsaps in overtime at the Region II-6A meet before losing in the state finals.
Riley Drennan of McKinney wrestling became the first Lionette to win a state championship, taking the 125-pound title. She finished the season with a 27-1 record, overcoming a 7-2 deficit in the semifinals to pin Sophia Tamayo and winning the final match 10-9 against Kayla Dunn.
