Thomas Jefferson High Varsity Boys Basketball: A Historic Season Under Coach Christopher Simpson
In the world of high school sports, every once in a while, a season comes along that breaks barriers, rewrites history, and redefines expectations. For the Thomas Jefferson High School Varsity Boys Basketball team, the 2025 winter season was exactly that. Under the leadership of Head Coach Christopher Simpson, the Patriots experienced a resurgence like no other, securing their first playoff appearance since 2003, snapping a 22-year drought, and setting new highs in both district wins and total season victories.
We caught up with Coach Simpson to reflect on the unforgettable season, the players who fueled the team’s success, and what lies ahead for this rapidly rising program.
Key Contributors: Building a Foundation for Success
A turnaround season doesn’t happen without the right mix of talent, chemistry, and leadership. Coach Simpson credited four players in particular with anchoring the team through its historic run: Jayden Murphy (10th grade), LaChristopher Roberson (12th), Noah Grams (11th), and Ja’Yaveon Brown (12th).
These student-athletes delivered consistently in big moments, and their unique contributions played a major role in pushing the Patriots into playoff territory.
Jayden Murphy, just a sophomore, showcased poise beyond his years and delivered when it mattered most.
LaChristopher Roberson and Ja’Yaveon Brown, both seniors, brought maturity, leadership, and a competitive edge that permeated the locker room.
Noah Grams, a junior, evolved into a legitimate third scoring option as the season progressed, giving the team much-needed depth and balance.
“Noah really developed and became a real 3rd scoring option for us in the second half of the season,” said Coach Simpson. “He led us in scoring during the tie-breaker game with 14 points.”
A Season for the Record Books
“This season was one for the record books,” Coach Simpson declared proudly. And he wasn’t exaggerating.
In addition to the playoff breakthrough, the Patriots saw unprecedented success in district competition, collecting more wins than any previous team in recent memory. This wasn’t just a bounce-back year — it was a culture shift. It was about proving that Thomas Jefferson basketball is back on the map.
Much of the season’s success came from battling through close games and emerging victorious under pressure, setting a tone of resilience and belief.
Defining Moments: Two Battles vs. Molina
Two games, in particular, defined the character and tenacity of this team, both against district rival Molina.
The first showdown, a home district opener, was one of the most dramatic of the season. After jumping to an early lead, the Patriots fell behind and found themselves trailing by 10 points in the fourth quarter. But they clawed their way back, eventually taking the lead with just 4 seconds remaining and winning 27-25.
“That was one of the ugliest games I have ever witnessed in my 25+ years of coaching,” said Simpson with a smile, not for its aesthetics, but for the grit shown by his team.
The second was a tie-breaker game, with playoff implications on the line. Down early, the Patriots battled back once again. In a near mirror of the earlier game, Jayden Murphy hit a crucial 2-point shot with 4 seconds left, giving the Patriots their first lead of the game — and the win.
These moments didn’t just earn wins. They galvanized the team’s belief that they could compete — and win — in pressure situations.
Rising Stars and Team Depth
While the spotlight often shines on stars, the development of role players and younger athletes often determines how far a team can go. This season, sophomore Noah Grams was one of those difference-makers, stepping into a starting role and thriving.
Injuries tested the team’s depth early on, as the Patriots lost sophomore Toiston Simmons in his first varsity action and sophomore Jorge Mancillas to an early-season injury and later a 3-week absence during Christmas.
But the team didn’t fold. Players like Nehemiah Alexander and Grams stepped up — both in presence and performance — and proved the Patriots had more than just a strong starting five.
Seniors Who Set the Standard
Coach Simpson had high praise for his senior class, which included four players who helped steer the ship with leadership and determination. While two of the seniors had prior varsity experience, one in particular stood out for his work ethic and intellect: Alejandro Benitez.
“Alejandro had not played basketball previously,” Simpson shared, “but he gave us energy, physicality, hustle — and he’s a very cerebral player. He earned and accepted a full academic scholarship to UT Austin!”
The leadership and presence of these seniors will be missed, but their impact has left a legacy for future classes to build upon.
Looking Ahead: The Future is Bright
If 2025 was the breakthrough, 2026 could be the beginning of a new dynasty. According to Coach Simpson, the Patriots return a talented mix of underclassmen and veterans who are ready to elevate the program even further.
“We have a good rising sophomore class returning, who made the playoffs as freshmen, along with a strong junior class,” Simpson said. “We look forward to being the first team in school history to make the playoffs in back-to-back seasons.”
Adding to the excitement, the team will return to Memphis, Tennessee, next season to compete in the prestigious Spartan Invitational at White Station High School, continuing to raise the profile of the program beyond the state.
Offseason Goals: Growth On and Off the Court
While the wins were thrilling, Coach Simpson knows that long-term success will be built in the offseason.
“Our focus now is on kids playing, developing a love for the game, gaining valuable experience, increasing their basketball IQ, and developing their bodies and stamina,” he said.
It's not just about skill development — it’s about building a sustainable culture where young athletes are passionate, disciplined, and ready to represent Thomas Jefferson at the highest level.
Where to Find Stats and Highlights
For fans and supporters looking to follow the team’s progress, stats and game footage can be found on MaxPreps and HUDL, where the growth and highlights of the Patriots’ historic season are well-documented.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 season marked the beginning of a new era for Thomas Jefferson High School boys basketball. Through determination, player development, and a commitment to the process, Coach Christopher Simpson and his team shattered a 22-year playoff drought and set a new standard for what Patriots basketball can be.
With a strong returning core, valuable lessons learned, and a culture of belief taking hold, the future of this program is as bright as it’s ever been.
Thomas Jefferson is no longer looking to make history — they’re looking to build it.
, LaChristopher Roberson (12th), Noah Grams (11th), and Ja’Yaveon Brown (12th).
These student-athletes delivered consistently in big moments, and their unique contributions played a major role in pushing the Patriots into playoff territory.
Jayden Murphy, just a sophomore, showcased poise beyond his years and delivered when it mattered most.
LaChristopher Roberson and Ja’Yaveon Brown, both seniors, brought maturity, leadership, and a competitive edge that permeated the locker room.
Noah Grams, a junior, evolved into a legitimate third scoring option as the season progressed, giving the team much-needed depth and balance.
“Noah really developed and became a real 3rd scoring option for us in the second half of the season,” said Coach Simpson. “He led us in scoring during the tie-breaker game with 14 points.”
A Season for the Record Books
“This season was one for the record books,” Coach Simpson declared proudly. And he wasn’t exaggerating.
In addition to the playoff breakthrough, the Patriots saw unprecedented success in district competition, collecting more wins than any previous team in recent memory. This wasn’t just a bounce-back year — it was a culture shift. It was about proving that Thomas Jefferson basketball is back on the map.
Much of the season’s success came from battling through close games and emerging victorious under pressure, setting a tone of resilience and belief.
Defining Moments: Two Battles vs. Molina
Two games, in particular, defined the character and tenacity of this team, both against district rival Molina.
The first showdown, a home district opener, was one of the most dramatic of the season. After jumping to an early lead, the Patriots fell behind and found themselves trailing by 10 points in the fourth quarter. But they clawed their way back, eventually taking the lead with just 4 seconds remaining and winning 27-25.
“That was one of the ugliest games I have ever witnessed in my 25+ years of coaching,” said Simpson with a smile, not for its aesthetics, but for the grit shown by his team.
The second was a tie-breaker game, with playoff implications on the line. Down early, the Patriots battled back once again. In a near mirror of the earlier game, Jayden Murphy hit a crucial 2-point shot with 4 seconds left, giving the Patriots their first lead of the game — and the win.
These moments didn’t just earn wins. They galvanized the team’s belief that they could compete — and win — in pressure situations.
Rising Stars and Team Depth
While the spotlight often shines on stars, the development of role players and younger athletes often determines how far a team can go. This season, sophomore Noah Grams was one of those difference-makers, stepping into a starting role and thriving.
Injuries tested the team’s depth early on, as the Patriots lost sophomore Toiston Simmons in his first varsity action and sophomore Jorge Mancillas to an early-season injury and later a 3-week absence during Christmas.
But the team didn’t fold. Players like Nehemiah Alexander and Grams stepped up — both in presence and performance — and proved the Patriots had more than just a strong starting five.
Seniors Who Set the Standard
Coach Simpson had high praise for his senior class, which included four players who helped steer the ship with leadership and determination. While two of the seniors had prior varsity experience, one in particular stood out for his work ethic and intellect: Alejandro Benitez.
“Alejandro had not played basketball previously,” Simpson shared, “but he gave us energy, physicality, hustle — and he’s a very cerebral player. He earned and accepted a full academic scholarship to UT Austin!”
The leadership and presence of these seniors will be missed, but their impact has left a legacy for future classes to build upon.
Looking Ahead: The Future is Bright
If 2025 was the breakthrough, 2026 could be the beginning of a new dynasty. According to Coach Simpson, the Patriots return a talented mix of underclassmen and veterans who are ready to elevate the program even further.
“We have a good rising sophomore class returning, who made the playoffs as freshmen, along with a strong junior class,” Simpson said. “We look forward to being the first team in school history to make the playoffs in back-to-back seasons.”
Adding to the excitement, the team will return to Memphis, Tennessee, next season to compete in the prestigious Spartan Invitational at White Station High School, continuing to raise the profile of the program beyond the state.
Offseason Goals: Growth On and Off the Court
While the wins were thrilling, Coach Simpson knows that long-term success will be built in the offseason.
“Our focus now is on kids playing, developing a love for the game, gaining valuable experience, increasing their basketball IQ, and developing their bodies and stamina,” he said.
It's not just about skill development — it’s about building a sustainable culture where young athletes are passionate, disciplined, and ready to represent Thomas Jefferson at the highest level.
Where to Find Stats and Highlights
For fans and supporters looking to follow the team’s progress, stats and game footage can be found on MaxPreps and HUDL, where the growth and highlights of the Patriots’ historic season are well-documented.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 season marked the beginning of a new era for Thomas Jefferson High School boys basketball. Through determination, player development, and a commitment to the process, Coach Christopher Simpson and his team shattered a 22-year playoff drought and set a new standard for what Patriots basketball can be.
With a strong returning core, valuable lessons learned, and a culture of belief taking hold, the future of this program is as bright as it’s ever been.
Thomas Jefferson is no longer looking to make history — they’re looking to build it.)
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