Season of Grit and Growth
The 2024 season was one of development, resilience, and leadership for J. Graham Brown High School, as Coach Jermill Bibb guided the team through a challenging but rewarding 13-17 campaign. Behind that record lies a story of perseverance, individual growth, and a team that never stopped fighting.
“We had one player appear in all 30 games,” Coach Bibb shared. “Our guys learned quickly that it was ‘next man up,’ and they embraced that mindset.”
Despite the obstacles, the team brought home a championship win at the Portland Christian Holiday Tournament and finished second in the 7th Region All-A Tournament, falling just three points short in the title game.
Key Contributors and Senior Leadership
The Bears were led by a balanced offensive attack:
Dayton Evans (Sophomore) – 12.9 PPG, the team’s leading scorer
Samuel Valentine (Junior) – 10.5 PPG, steady offensive force
KJ Mitchell & Jacob Mattingly (Seniors) – Versatile captains who contributed in multiple areas
Muhammed Seck (Senior) – Team’s rim protector and key rebounder (5.2 RPG), and the only player to appear in all 30 games
The senior class also left a lasting mark off the court.
“They were leaders, role models, and took a no-bullying approach in school,” said Bibb. “They always knew how to turn someone’s bad day into a good one.”
Developing Talent and Building Momentum
One player who stood out in his development was Junior Cameron Sharpe, who embraced his role and became a steady presence in the backcourt.
“Cameron knew the playbook inside and out,” Bibb said. “He’ll be a key leader next season.”
The foundation for next year is already in place, with several key players returning, including Evans, Valentine, Austin Vitato, Luke Degener, and Sharpe, plus new talent joining the program.
What’s Next: All-A Title and Individual Growth
With offseason training already beginning, the Bears are focused on team and personal growth.
“We were just 3 points short in the All-A Tournament — our goal is to win it next season,” said Bibb. “We want every player to hit their individual goals, and that starts now.”
In the team locker room hangs a quote that defines their mindset:
"If you want to look good in front of thousands, you have to outwork thousands in front of nobody." – Damian Lillard
With a growing core and a hunger to improve, J. Graham Brown is primed for a breakout year in 2025.
Full Stats & Schedule
Visit KHSAA Scoreboard – J. Graham Brown Basketball for full player and team statistics.
 – 12.9 PPG, the team’s leading scorer
Samuel Valentine (Junior) – 10.5 PPG, steady offensive force
KJ Mitchell & Jacob Mattingly (Seniors) – Versatile captains who contributed in multiple areas
Muhammed Seck (Senior) – Team’s rim protector and key rebounder (5.2 RPG), and the only player to appear in all 30 games
The senior class also left a lasting mark off the court.
“They were leaders, role models, and took a no-bullying approach in school,” said Bibb. “They always knew how to turn someone’s bad day into a good one.”
Developing Talent and Building Momentum
One player who stood out in his development was Junior Cameron Sharpe, who embraced his role and became a steady presence in the backcourt.
“Cameron knew the playbook inside and out,” Bibb said. “He’ll be a key leader next season.”
The foundation for next year is already in place, with several key players returning, including Evans, Valentine, Austin Vitato, Luke Degener, and Sharpe, plus new talent joining the program.
What’s Next: All-A Title and Individual Growth
With offseason training already beginning, the Bears are focused on team and personal growth.
“We were just 3 points short in the All-A Tournament — our goal is to win it next season,” said Bibb. “We want every player to hit their individual goals, and that starts now.”
In the team locker room hangs a quote that defines their mindset:
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