Wilkinson County Boys Basketball Makes a Statement in Coach Sherman’s First Season
In his debut season at the helm of the Wilkinson County High School Boys Basketball program, Coach Christopher Sherman set the tone for a new era—one defined by grit, growth, and heart. Though the season was compact and challenging, the Wildcats defied expectations, made a playoff appearance, and laid the foundation for what looks to be a bright future.
Coach Sherman’s inaugural campaign wasn't just about wins and losses. It was about establishing a culture, developing young talent, and teaching his players to believe in themselves. “Being the head coach for the first time here, it was an impactful season,” Sherman reflected. “My guys worked hard regardless of the tasks at hand, and we’re building something special.”
Key Contributors Make Their Mark
The heartbeat of the Wildcats this season came from a core group of players who stepped up in significant ways. At the center of it all was Ja'Norris Anthony, a dynamic scorer and evolving leader who led the team in points and several other statistical categories.
“Ja'Norris is a versatile player, a fierce competitor, and someone who filled up the stat sheet,” said Sherman. “He became a vocal leader and set the tone for what’s to come. His impact this season was undeniable, and next year—his senior season—he’s going to be a force.”
Joining Anthony in the spotlight was Darien Tolliver, the team's leading rebounder. As a consistent presence in the paint, Tolliver’s development was steady and impactful. “His consistency will play a huge role in how far we can go next year,” Sherman noted.
Oliver Packnett Jr., the team’s reliable sharpshooter, found his rhythm from beyond the arc as the season progressed. Known for his three-point accuracy, Packnett also began showing versatility by posting up inside, adding another layer to his offensive game.
Meanwhile, Germarkus Patterson and Javien Ephion shared floor general duties, growing into confident point guards who showed they could control the tempo and guide the offense. Their chemistry and mutual drive helped elevate the team down the stretch.
The Wildcats also benefited from the leadership and competitive fire of their senior trio—Jayden Dunbar, Robert White, and Gartavion Woodside. Dunbar, known for his defense, registered a season-high in blocks and proved himself as a multi-position asset. White, another long-range threat, overcame early-season inconsistency to deliver when it mattered. And Woodside contributed valuable minutes with a mix of inside scoring and determined defense.
From Rough Start to Turnaround Moment
The season didn’t begin with a fairytale start. With most players transitioning directly from football, the team had only a limited window, just four to five months, to come together. But what they lacked in prep time, they made up for in effort and unity.
The turning point of the season came with their first win—a hard-fought, emotional victory that lit a fire under the Wildcats. “That first win was everything,” Sherman said. “It showed our guys that all the hard work was worth it, and it sparked belief in what we could accomplish.”
That belief carried them through the rest of the season and into the playoffs, defying critics who had counted them out early on. “Making the playoffs spoke volumes about our team’s character and determination,” Sherman added. “They never quit. They pushed through every challenge.”
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Like any young team, Wilkinson County faced its share of adversity—from tough losses to injuries to learning how to compete in high-pressure situations. But Sherman’s squad never backed down.
“They responded by continuing to work hard and push themselves,” he said. “They took every challenge as an opportunity to grow.”
The team’s resilience was reflected in the way they developed as individuals and as a unit, growing closer and stronger with each game, even in a limited schedule.
Seniors Leave a Legacy of Leadership
The contributions of the senior class—Dunbar, White, and Woodside—went far beyond the stat sheet. Their competitive spirit, energy, and leadership helped drive the entire team.
“Their energy was contagious,” said Sherman. “They pushed the rest of the team to give more. They showed what it means to lead, and their presence helped shape the identity of this program moving forward.”
A Promising Future on the Horizon
As the Wildcats look ahead to the 2025–2026 season, Coach Sherman is filled with optimism. The returning core is stacked with talent, experience, and hunger.
Ja'Norris Anthony, the leading scorer, is poised to return even stronger in his senior campaign.
Darien Tolliver, now a junior, is expected to be a dominant force on the boards.
Oliver Packnett Jr., Javien Ephion, and Germarkus Patterson will continue to stretch defenses and run the offense efficiently.
Jalen Cain, a senior-to-be, is a wildcard with great ball-handling skills who’s developing his shot and poised for a breakout year.
Laquarrius Hans, a rising sophomore, will be expected to take on a larger role on both ends of the court.
La'Darrius Perry, who showed consistent improvement, will be a junior and eager to make a greater impact.
Orlando Packnett and Byron Dawson are two incoming freshmen who have shown they are ready to compete on the next level. Those who are hungry to compete will help make an impact. Curious to see what they will help bring this season!
On the defensive side, Darren Moody, Keondre Allen, and Braxton Winding are expected to take on larger responsibilities.
“This group has grown so much,” Sherman said. “They’ve built confidence and are motivated to take things to another level.”
Focused Offseason Ahead
With eyes on improvement, Coach Sherman plans to use the offseason to develop every aspect of the game. From skill work and conditioning to building chemistry and refining the team's identity, it’s clear that the Wildcats are not satisfied with where they are—they’re hungry for more.
“We’re coming for everything we want,” Sherman said emphatically. “This offseason is about sharpening our tools, building trust, and stepping fully into the culture we’ve started to create. It’s going to be a season to remember.”
Follow the Journey
Fans looking to follow the Wildcats’ progress can track stats and updates on MaxPreps, where full team and individual performances are posted. Sherman encourages supporters to stay tuned. “Please hit the follow button—big things are coming!”
Final Thoughts
The 2025 season marked the beginning of a new chapter for Wilkinson County High School Boys Basketball. Coach Sherman’s first year was a season of resilience, leadership, and transformation, and the Wildcats now stand on the edge of something great.
With a talented core returning, the lessons of a battle-tested year, and a coach who believes in his players, Wilkinson County is ready to roar into next season.
As Sherman puts it: “Go Wildcats!!!”
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