Jack C. Hays High School Girls Basketball 2025 Season Recap: A Year of Grit, Growth, and Determination
The 2025 season for the Jack C. Hays High School girls' basketball team was one defined by heart, resilience, and a hunger to compete. Led by Head Coach Deatrick Stigall, the Lady Hawks put together a strong campaign that showcased the team’s talent, competitive spirit, and promise for the future. Though the season ended sooner than anticipated, there was no shortage of highlights, statement wins, and player development moments that made this year a memorable one.
We spoke with Coach Stigall to reflect on the highs, the heartbreaks, and everything in between in a season filled with growth and grit.
Key Contributors and Team Leaders
Central to the Lady Hawks’ success were standout performances from several key contributors. Coach Stigall identified Endia Stigall, Neela Castillo, Gabi Burleson, and Naya Burleson as the core drivers of the team's performance throughout the season.
Each of these players brought a unique dynamic to the court, forming a balanced unit capable of both high-tempo offense and hard-nosed defense. Their consistent effort and leadership made a difference in close games and helped establish the team’s identity as a determined and competitive force.
“They were instrumental in our success,” said Coach Stigall. “They showed up every day with intensity and gave us the push we needed when things got tough.”
A Season of Solid Performance
While the Lady Hawks didn’t make the deep playoff run they had hoped for, the overall tone of the season remained positive.
“The season went well,” said Stigall. “It ended earlier than I thought it should have, but overall it was a good season.”
Indeed, measuring a season’s success isn't just about how far a team goes in the postseason. From battling tough opponents to securing key wins, the Lady Hawks showcased resilience and steady progress that bodes well for the program’s long-term outlook.
Defining Moments: Redemption Against Cedar Park
Every season has its turning points — games that shift momentum, rally a team, and leave a lasting impact. For the Lady Hawks, that game came against Cedar Park.
Earlier in the season, Cedar Park had defeated the Lady Hawks on their home court. But in the rematch, Hays returned the favor, claiming a thrilling road victory that showed the team’s growth and tenacity.
“One defining moment was when we beat Cedar Park at their place after losing to them at our place,” Stigall shared.
The win not only served as a redemption moment but also as a spark of confidence, proving that this team could respond to adversity and rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
Senior Class: Setting the Standard
Though not every senior’s contribution can be measured by a stat sheet, the leadership and energy brought by the 2025 class were crucial to the team’s culture.
“The senior class brought lots of grit and fight to our team,” said Coach Stigall. “They also brought a competitive spirit.”
That grit translated into on-court intensity and off-court accountability. Their influence helped mold the younger players and set expectations for the program moving forward. Whether it was battling through tough games or maintaining focus during practices, the seniors led by example — a trait that Coach Stigall hopes to see continue with the returning group.
Looking to the Future
Even as the season closes, the horizon looks bright for the Lady Hawks. While Coach Stigall didn’t single out specific developing players, the team’s competitive edge and returning talent suggest a strong core is in place for next season.
What excites the coaching staff most is the potential for growth. The experiences gained from this year — both the victories and the setbacks — have laid the foundation for even greater things.
With a focus on player development, mental toughness, and team chemistry, the Lady Hawks are poised to continue their upward trajectory.
Offseason Goals: Rebounding and Shooting
As with any successful program, the offseason is seen not just as a break, but as an opportunity.
Coach Stigall has already set the course for the team’s development: rebounding and shooting. These two areas will be key points of emphasis as the team prepares for next season.
“In the offseason, we’re looking to improve on rebounding and shooting,” he said. “Those are the things that can turn close games into wins and help carry us deeper into the postseason.”
By sharpening their efficiency and physicality, the Lady Hawks aim to close the gap on their toughest rivals and come back stronger in 2026.
Beyond the Numbers
While statistics offer one way to measure success, Coach Stigall’s reflections on the season reveal that the true victories come in the form of growth, as individuals and as a team. The Lady Hawks took on challenges, answered with effort and intensity, and learned how to compete at a high level.
From the leadership of the senior class to the emergence of rising players, the 2025 campaign served as both a strong chapter in the program’s story and a promising preview of what’s to come.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 season for the Jack C. Hays Lady Hawks was one of quiet strength and determined progress. While it may not have ended in a state title, it was a season that reminded fans, families, and players of what it means to play with heart, to fight, to grow, and to believe in the team beside you.
And as Coach Stigall and the returning players turn the page toward next season, one thing is clear: the Lady Hawks are building something special. With continued development, sharpened skills, and the same competitive spirit, Hays is a program to watch in 2026 and beyond.
For fans looking to follow the team’s progress, game stats and season updates can be found on MaxPreps.
Lady Hawks 2025 Season By the Numbers:
Region wins: Highlighted by a road victory over Cedar Park
Team focus: Grit, competitiveness, and rebounding
Key contributors: Endia Stigall, Neela Castillo, Gabi & Naya Burleson
Offseason goals: Improve rebounding and shooting
As the gym lights go dim on this season, they’ll flicker on even brighter come next winter — and the Lady Hawks will be ready.
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