Homestead returns an elite blend of talent, experience, and leadership for the upcoming season — the kind of roster that has the potential to make a legitimate state championship run. Last year’s group was one of the most complete teams in Class 4A and with nearly all major contributors returning, expectations are as high as ever for coach Rod Parker’s squad.
At the top of that returning core is senior guard Myah Epps, who proved to be one of the most dynamic guards in the state last season. The Louisville commit averaged 15.0 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game, while shooting 43% from the field and 76% from the free-throw line. Her ability to control tempo, create her own shot, and elevate her teammates made her an All-State and All-Conference selection, as well as an Indiana Junior All-Star. Epps’ court vision and clutch scoring will once again make her a leader on both ends.
Joining her is fellow All-State senior Gabby Helsom, who anchored the offense with consistency and efficiency. The Toledo commit averaged 18.9 points and 3.1 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 51% from the field and 85% from the free-throw line. Her combination of power and finesse made her a nightmare matchup for defenses, capable of scoring inside or stretching the floor from the perimeter. Helsom’s leadership and ability to take over games will be vital as Homestead aims for another deep postseason run.
The Spartans’ backcourt depth extends to two more senior standouts — Whitney Ankenbruck and Carley Moellering, both committed to Indiana Wesleyan University. Ankenbruck was a steady force last season, averaging 10.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game while shooting 43% from the field and 84% at the line. Moellering, meanwhile, provided scoring punch and energy off the ball, posting 7.9 points per game with 39% shooting from the floor and 83% at the stripe. Their unselfish play and leadership round out one of the state’s most balanced senior classes.
Beyond the seniors, the Spartans’ supporting cast gives them tremendous depth and flexibility. Sophomore Delaney Noll emerged as one of the best young guards in the area last season, averaging 6.2 points per game on 56% shooting while also contributing 2.9 assists and 2.0 rebounds per night. Sophomore Suzy Perego added 2.3 points and 1.1 rebounds per game, while junior Eva Scarbeary chipped in 2.9 points per game and shot a strong 81% from the free-throw line, showing promise as a reliable role player in the paint.
Senior Kendall McLaughlin provides a steady post presence, averaging 3.1 points and 1.7 rebounds while shooting 55% from the field. Her physical play and interior defense give Homestead the size and toughness needed to compete with elite opponents. Add in young talents like Aggie Bell, Kenna Taylor, and Leah Werth, and the Spartans have the kind of rotation depth that few programs in Indiana can match.
Parker emphasizes defense and consistency as key growth areas for this season. While last year’s Spartans outscored opponents by nearly 25 points per game — averaging 66.9 points — the focus remains on sustaining intensity and competing at a high level on every possession. With championship-caliber depth and experience, Homestead’s ceiling depends not on talent, but on how well they defend and execute in key moments.
Ultimately, the Spartans’ goals are clear: improve daily, complement one another’s skills, and make a deep postseason run. With four college-bound seniors, emerging underclass talent, and one of the most balanced rosters in the state, Homestead enters the season as both a favorite in the SAC and a legitimate state contender. Their blend of poise, chemistry, and experience could make this year one to remember in Spartan Nation.
“I believe we will be fun to watch as we have several talented and dynamic players on both ends of the court. I expect us to compete at a high level every game and be one of the area’s best teams,” said Parker.
WHY #1?
This is an easy sell, the Spartans have one of the biggest and best cores in the entire state. They can go deeper on their bench, with comfort, than possibly anyone else. They have high level players from sophomores to seniors.
To beat Homestead, you are going to need to play at the top of your game and hope Homestead slips. Having two of the best players in the state in Epps and Helsom is super rare but they have shown a great ability to balance that high end talent.
It is possible the last time a Homestead team seemed so complete going into a season, they went on to win the state title in 2017. Two of their big three that season, Madisen Parker and Jazmyne Geist, are now on the Spartans bench as part of this year’s coaching staff.
KEY GAME
January 29 vs. Northrop
When your schedule is as loaded as Homestead, every game is a key in some way. There aren’t many off nights for the Spartans, especially out of conference.
That is what makes their key game the toughest in conference game. Northrop may have the most high end talent in the SAC behind Homestead, but they are also likely the most complete behind the Spartans.
With this being the last game of the regular season, the conference is likely to come down to this game and that means a lot of unknowns about health and focus. The postseason is going to be enticing, but closing out the regular season and the SAC is going to be important in this one.
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