Written By: Coach Buckets @PreWarWesley
James (J.J.) Dunnigan Jr.
Twitter: @jj_dunniganjr
Class of 2026
6’2” 200Lbs
DB/WR
Manhattan High School, Manhattan Kansas
Kansas Jayhawks Commitment
Fresh off an eye-popping performance at OT7 in Dallas, where he was spotlighted on their livestream with a pick-six. Kansas commit J.J. Dunnigan Jr. took time to chat with The Platform. The standout athlete from Manhattan High School in Kansas reflected on last season’s success, shared his goals for the future, and dropped gems of advice for young athletes chasing greatness.
Coach Buckets: With your amazing play that led to both personal and team success last season in Manhattan, what’s your outlook for this coming season?
J.J. Dunnigan Jr.: “As a player, I want to win Gatorade Player of the Year, and as a team, our goal is to win the state championship.”
Coach Buckets: We know the target is a return to the state title game. What’s the team doing to stay locked in, weight room attendance, camps, what’s the team’s mindset? What’s the message from the coaching staff?
J.J. Dunnigan Jr.: “The coaches are always preaching “deeds not words”, that’s our motto this year. It all starts in the weight room. We’re just building every day and stacking wins.”
Coach Buckets: At The Platform, we’re all about exposing the unexposed. Who are some under-the-radar guys at Manhattan High that deserve more attention?
J.J. Dunnigan Jr.:
- Adonis Dunnigan (ATH)
- Jamarcus Vornes (WR)
- Nisbyc Johnson (DB)
- Khamario Davis (RB)
- Jojo Mortenson (DB)
“Those guys are dogs. They deserve their names out there.’
Coach Buckets: What do you think has led to your success so far? Any coaches, trainers, or camps you want to shout out?
J.J. Dunnigan Jr.: “First, I thank God for blessing me with the ability to play at a high level. And big thanks to my dad. He’s the one who instilled in me the qualities that make a great person and a great player.”
Coach Buckets: For all the athletes grinding every day, trying to improve 1%, what’s your advice?
J.J. Dunnigan Jr.: “It’s a lifestyle. Everything you do should reflect where you want to go. Work so hard that they have no choice but to see you. And always keep your faith strong.”
Coach Buckets: You’re a Kansas Jayhawks commit. What led you to choose KU? Was it the scheme? The chance to play both ways? The staff?
J.J. Dunnigan Jr.: “KU made it clear I’m a priority. I want to help lead this class and make a mark. I’ve built a great relationship with the coaches—we talk ball all the time and go over schemes. And yes, I’ll be playing both offense and defense because they truly believe in my ability to do that.”
Coach Buckets: You’ve played 7v7 with KS Elite, Building Champions, and HellStar. How would you compare the level of competition?
J.J. Dunnigan Jr.: “The difference between Kansas 7v7 and HellStar/OT7 is the speed. Everything moves faster. Every player is polished and knows exactly where to be. The margin for error is smaller, and that’s what makes it fun.”
Coach Buckets: What does 7v7 give to an athlete, and how does it translate into Friday night success?
J.J. Dunnigan Jr.: “7v7 helps you sharpen your technique. In the offseason, you’ve got to keep those football instincts sharp. It puts you in live situations so when the season rolls around, you’re already in gear, ready to make big plays—and head straight for the camera, lol.”
Conclusion:
J.J. Dunnigan Jr. continues to prove he’s not just one of the top athletes in Kansas. He’s one of the most grounded, driven, and prepared players in the country. Whether it’s making plays under the lights on Friday nights or locking up top competition at OT7, Dunnigan’s future looks incredibly
