The upcoming season carries high expectations for this senior-laden squad, as the team returns a deep and experienced lineup ready to make one final push together. With a core of seven seniors who have been through the grind of varsity basketball, this group enters the year with chemistry, confidence, and a shared determination to leave their mark on the program.
Leading the charge once again is standout guard Swynn Jackson, a dynamic playmaker who averaged 14.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5 assists per game last season. Her ability to control the tempo, distribute the ball, and take over games when needed makes her one of the most complete players in the area. Jackson’s experience and poise will be crucial as the team looks to navigate a competitive schedule.
Right alongside her is fellow senior Khala Williams-Thomas, whose scoring prowess and versatility make her a dangerous threat from anywhere on the court. Williams-Thomas poured in 18.3 points per game while also contributing 4.1 rebounds and 2.6 assists, proving she can both create and finish plays. Together, Jackson and Williams-Thomas form one of the most explosive backcourts in the region—capable of dictating pace and turning defense into quick offense. Williams-Thomas has also long been considered one of Northeast Indiana’s top defenders.
The supporting cast is equally seasoned and productive. Marion Wyss and Brilee Day, both senior guards, add shooting and perimeter balance to the lineup, each averaging 8.5 points per game last season. Their ability to stretch defenses and defend the perimeter gives the team valuable depth in the backcourt. Inside, senior forwards Alivia Rice and Miley Wareing provide muscle and rebounding power. Rice averaged 6 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, while Wareing nearly averaged a double-double with 9.8 points and 8.7 rebounds, anchoring the post and cleaning up on the glass, despite not a late start to her season last year after a move to Northrop.
Another veteran presence, Niamyah Anderson, adds further size and strength in the frontcourt, contributing 3 points and 4 rebounds per game last season. Her willingness to do the little things—set screens, box out, and defend the paint—gives the team the kind of gritty edge that championship squads are built on.
While the senior core is deep, the team is also introducing several newcomers who could make an impact. Saniyah Kimbrough and Kamiah Morris, both juniors, bring fresh energy and athleticism to the guard rotation, while senior Mariana Mitchell joins the mix as another steady presence who can contribute immediately. Their development and ability to complement the veteran leaders could be key to the team’s long-term success.
The program’s biggest strength is its experience and athleticism. With so many seniors returning, the players know each other’s tendencies and have a natural sense of chemistry that comes only from years of playing together. Their speed and ability to pressure the ball defensively will allow them to dictate tempo and wear opponents down over the course of games.
However, the coaching staff recognizes that success won’t come automatically. The team’s biggest area of growth lies in its ability to overcome adversity and “gel at the right time.” Staying composed when challenges arise—and using their experience to stay focused—will be the difference between a good season and a great one.
WHY #4?
Northrop is powerful up front, featuring three of the area’s best players and one of the area’s more seasoned and successful coaches.
Make no mistake, coach Katie Jackson is going to be all in on sending her youngest daughter out a winner before she heads off to a D1 career, along with this tight knit group around Swynn. The player Jackson and Khala Williams-Thomas have been making impacts since their freshman season and they have some great backcourt battles coming this season. The pair is arguably as good as any other duo in Indiana, let alone our area.
KEY GAME
November 22 vs. Whitko
This is a game where the two teams match up extremely well after splitting two contests last season.
While Northrop will have two home games before this, including one massive one against Warsaw, there is something about the familiarity between these two teams, their coaches and their particular styles.
This is about as much of a “must win” game you can get early in the season and out of conference.
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