Coming off a 17-14 season, the Williamsburg Yellow Jackets saw noticeable improvement last year from the season before, but still fell short of some of the lofty goals Head Coach Anthony Hibbard had hoped to achieve.
Despite the shortcomings, the Jackets are once again setting their sights high as the 2024-2025 season tips off.
Hibbard said that he is “excited” about the upcoming season and expects to have a solid group of players on the court this year, especially with a core of experienced seniors to help lead the team.
“We have a solid core of returning players who have experience in our system and have been a part of some big wins. We are looking to build off that momentum this year,” said Hibbard. “Many of these players have been with me since the beginning, which makes it bittersweet to reflect on how far we have come together. I am incredibly proud of each of them and feel both thankful and honored to be part of their senior season.”
Among that core of Williamsburg’s returning seniors is Andrew Smith, who ranked in the top 10 in the region in both scoring and rebounding last season. Hibbard said that he expects Smith’s level of play to remain high again this year.
“Andrew Smith is a four-year starter who has grown into an all-region caliber player. He had an outstanding season last year, and I was genuinely disappointed he was not more widely recognized in postseason accolades,” said Hibbard. “We are expecting another big year from him, and by the time his high school career concludes, he will finish as one of the top scorers and rebounders in Williamsburg history.”
Hibbard also commented on his other returning seniors, which includes: Conner Saylor, Cooper Prewitt and Lakin Cunagin.
“Conner Saylor is another key player we will rely on this year. His growth has been remarkable, and he played a vital role in some of our biggest wins last season… Cooper Prewitt is back with us this year, and while his impact may not always show up in the box score, he is invaluable to our team. Cooper is a great teammate and brings a physical presence to every game,” said Hibbard. “Lakin Cunagin also returns and was a key contributor last season. We anticipate Lakin stepping into a larger role this year, and we are excited to see him continue to develop.”
Fans may also notice a new name on this year’s roster, though he is a familiar face. Senior Nate Goodin is hanging up his cleats for a pair of sneakers, as he will be finding a spot on the rotation this year for the Jackets. This will be Goodin’s first year playing basketball for Williamsburg, but Hibbard said that he was confident that his “incredible athleticism” will be an asset for the team.
“His versatility will add a new dimension to our play style, and I am looking forward to seeing what he can bring to the basketball court,” said Hibbard.
Finding new ways in which to use their talent will be a necessity this year, as the competition within Williamsburg’s region and district will likely continue to prove a formidable challenge. The Jackets ended last season with an 8-7 region record and a 1-6 district record.
Even with Williamsburg being the lone single A team in their district, Hibbard believes this year’s team will prove to be up for the challenge.
“The 50th District is one of the toughest in the entire region. We are fortunate to have some outstanding coaches and incredibly talented players. Last season, we were able to secure a district win, and our goal this year is to build on that success and add more wins to the column,” said Hibbard.
“After evaluating our roster and reflecting on our progress from last season, it is clear that the camaraderie and unity within our team will continue to be a key factor in our success. We expect that same energy and togetherness to carry us through this season.”
The Jackets open up the season on Dec. 2 at home against Ligon Cogo Homeschool.
Using lessons learned last season, Lady Jackets looking for more wins this winter
The Williamsburg Lady Jackets experienced a less-than-stellar season last year, finishing with a 6-23 record. But Head Coach Melissia Douglas, who is entering her second year at the helm, believes her team could be poised for a rebound this season.
Douglas noted that she has a fairly young roster of talent this year, but said that she looks forward to seeing how they develop over the season.
“This year we still have a young team with only two seniors and no juniors. There is a lot of room for growth and development, which can be exciting,” said Douglas. “This allows a great opportunity to build the program on fundamentals, developing teamwork, and fostering a positive team culture.
“The challenge, though, is balancing teaching them while still pushing to improve them. I understand that as the season begins each game will bring a mix of surprises and learning moments. Last year, we had to rebuild a lot of players that came from previous year and learn team chemistry again.”
The Lady Jackets return several key names from last year’s squad, including seniors Hanna Creekmore and Lorelei Coleman, as well as sophomores Abby Moses and Presley Spicer. According to Douglas, being able to have a core of experienced, veteran players is going to play a pivotal role in how the upcoming season shakes out.
“Each of these ladies are natural athletes and will add some great opportunities for our team to grow competitively,” said Douglas. “Hannah Creekmore is an exceptional well-rounded athlete that succeeds in any sport she participates in. She is disciplined and coachable on and off the court. Lorelei Coleman is my other senior who has just recently been released from a knee injury. Unfortunately for her, she had to sit her senior volleyball season out. I am so excited that she is having the chance to compete with basketball. She brings a great energy to the floor.”
“Both of these ladies are excellent leaders as well for our younger players. Moses and Spicer are two veterans as well that like to give some time in the off season. They both love the game and numbers are very important to them. They both have great shots and work well with moving in the paint.”
Being able to develop the younger players will be vital for Williamsburg’s success this year, as the Lady Jackets face fierce competition with both their region and district.
Last year, Williamsburg ended with a 3-12 region record and a 0-7 district record.
Douglas acknowledged that Williamsburg’s district, specifically, was tough due to the larger schools they have to face.
And while she said that she looks forward to the challenge, she believes that both her and her team are also ready to face it.
“A well-planned schedule can be a game-changer, especially with a younger group. It’s good to balance challenging games with ones where the team can really find their rhythm and confidence. We are in a very competitive district so it is important to have a balance,” said Douglas.
“As for the district we are always the underdog and that’s OK. I knew that when I accepted this job. But that’s one of my why’s. Williamsburg made the choice to give me this opportunity and I want to know just exactly what impact and growth that I can unfold over time,” said Douglas. “In teaching and coaching, it’s also incredibly rewarding to watch a student or player overcome obstacles, surprise themselves with what they’re capable of, or finally see their hard work pay off.”
The Lady Jackets open up their season on Dec. 2 at home against Ligon Cogo Homeschool.
