Whitko enters the 2025–26 season with a blend of proven scoring, valuable varsity experience, and a few new faces ready to make an impact. The Wildcats, members of the Three Rivers Conference, will once again be guided by head coach Justin Jordan, who enters his sixth season at the helm and 11th overall as a coach. Jordan and his staff have built a program centered on unselfish play and defensive grit, and this year’s roster seems well-positioned to continue that identity.
The Wildcats return a dangerous backcourt highlighted by a pair of sisters. Reese Stonebraker, a senior shooting guard who averaged 13.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game last season. Her ability to score at all three levels makes her a go-to option offensively, while her rebounding numbers show she’s more than just a perimeter threat. Junior point guard Jayma Stonebraker adds another steady playmaker after posting 12.7 points, 4.4 boards, and 3.8 assists per contest. Together, the Stonebraker sisters form one of the conference’s more dynamic duos, capable of pushing tempo and controlling games.
In the post, junior center Ally Brown provides an interior presence after averaging 6 points and 6 rebounds last season. Sophomore point guard Hazel Leffers rounds out the core group of returning starters; she contributed 3.7 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists a game as a freshman and is expected to take a step forward with a year of varsity experience under her belt. With that combination of size inside and guard depth on the perimeter, Whitko will have lineup versatility to adjust to different opponents.
Key returners beyond the starting five include Jocelyn Luecke (junior shooting guard), Anna Allebach (junior forward), and Willow Osborn (junior shooting guard). Each provides depth, energy, and situational flexibility — especially important for a program that values defensive pressure and team-first play. The Wildcats also welcome several newcomers who could quickly carve out roles, including Kyra Lowe, a junior transfer expected to handle some point guard duties, and promising freshmen Ady Luecke and Jules Leffers. Their development will be crucial as Whitko works to replace lost production.
Graduation took away two important pieces — Adrijanna Phillips, who averaged 12.6 points a game, and Briasha Harrison, who added 6.2 points. Filling those scoring gaps will be a priority, but Jordan believes this year’s group has the unselfishness and balance to get it done. Several players are capable of sharing the offensive load, and the Wildcats’ ball movement should create quality looks for shooters and slashers alike.
This team will center on selfless play, outside shooting, and defensive pressure. Whitko has multiple guards comfortable handling the ball and spacing the floor, while Brown gives them a target inside to balance their perimeter attack. Defensively, the Wildcats plan to use their depth and quickness to disrupt passing lanes and generate transition offense. If the newcomers acclimate quickly, Whitko could throw waves of players at opponents to maintain an up-tempo style.
Developing a strong bench rotation could be the difference in close conference matchups and postseason play.
With a strong mix of senior leadership, versatile guards, and a clear defensive identity, Whitko looks poised to stay competitive in the TRC race and make noise in the Class 2A tournament again this season. If their younger players step into bigger roles and the team can find another consistent scorer alongside the Stonebrakers, the Wildcats could exceed expectations.
“We are a very talented team this year. I hope we can have another successful season,” Jordan said.
WHY #8?
Whitko is coming off a major success season, winning 21 games and a regional title. In just six years, coach Justin Jordan has established Whitko as a dominant force in the area. They have earned their right to be listed high in the preseason and in a spot that may only grow as the season continues.
KEY GAME
November 22 at Northrop
Anytime that you can get two of the best teams in the area together, you are in for a treat.
The guard play in this game is going to be phenomenal with the Stonebrakers squaring off against the Bruins’ dynamic backcourt. And the coaches and players have a lot of experience with eachother so this game could very well be the best for either team all season.
Last season, Northrop ran away with the game but then Whitko avenged that later in the season in a tournament.
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