A Season to Remember: J.W. Mitchell Girls Basketball Returns to Glory
For the first time in over a decade, the J.W. Mitchell High School Girls Varsity Basketball team made headlines not just for their effort—but for their results. Under the leadership of Head Coach James Devins, the Mustangs capped off an extraordinary 2025 season by securing a 20-8 record, finishing second in their district, and—most notably—qualifying for the state playoffs for the first time in 14 years.
In a year marked by resilience, growth, and grit, the team redefined what’s possible for the program and set a new bar for future Mustangs to chase.
The Core of Success: Key Contributors
Every successful season has its stars, and for Mitchell, several players emerged as cornerstone contributors.
At the heart of the offense was point guard Kaylana Little, who led the team in scoring with a 10.9 points per game average. Her ability to control the tempo and deliver under pressure was instrumental in close contests and big wins alike.
Joining her in the frontcourt was power forward Priya Jacob, who brought an inside presence the team leaned on all year. Jacob averaged a near double-double with 10.0 points and 9.0 rebounds per game, anchoring both ends of the floor with her physicality and consistency.
On the defensive end, Brianna Coure stood out with an impressive 4.7 steals per game, while also chipping in 7.6 points per game. Her defensive tenacity made her a constant disruptor, turning defense into offense and creating momentum-shifting plays.
These three set the tone for a team that didn’t just compete—but won with purpose.
A Turning Point Against Sunlake
While the Mustangs got off to a solid start, the season’s true turning point came with a critical win over Sunlake High School. The 52–46 victory wasn't just another tally in the win column—it was a statement.
“We turned the corner with our regular season win against Sunlake,” said Coach Devins. “That game gave us the belief that we could beat quality opponents and do something special.”
The energy and confidence generated from that victory seemed to carry throughout the remainder of the season, culminating in a run to the state playoffs—a feat that hadn't been accomplished since 2011.
Emerging Talent and Growth
While the veterans led the way, the 2025 campaign also saw the emergence of several younger players who grew into significant roles as the season progressed.
Three names in particular stood out: Hailey Malik (#10), Sydney Reinhart (#3), and Malaya Hunter (#2). Whether it was stepping into key minutes, showing poise in pressure moments, or simply improving in practice every day, these players illustrated the depth and potential of the program.
Their development not only added immediate value this season but also served as a preview of what’s to come.
Composure Under Pressure
A team’s true character is often revealed in moments of adversity. For Mitchell, 2025 was full of challenges—tight games, pressure-packed situations, and the occasional injury—but the team showed unwavering resilience.
“We were a very resilient group,” Coach Devins noted. “They responded well to challenges and pressure.”
Whether bouncing back from losses or grinding out close wins, the Mustangs developed a mental toughness that carried them through the ups and downs of a long season. That kind of composure can’t be taught overnight—it’s earned through experience, and Mitchell certainly earned theirs.
Senior Leadership Leaves a Lasting Legacy
Every successful team has a foundation of leadership, and this year’s senior class provided just that. With strong performances and contagious energy, the seniors not only set the standard on the court but also modeled the kind of effort and attitude required for sustained success.
“They brought strong performance and energy,” said Coach Devins. “Their presence helped elevate the program.”
As they graduate, they leave behind more than just stats—they leave behind a new culture of excellence and belief, one that future Mustangs can follow.
Building for the Future
The good news for Mustang fans? This isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning.
Coach Devins is particularly excited about what’s coming next: eight returning players and a wave of new talent entering the program. That combination of experience and potential sets the stage for another strong season ahead.
“I don’t see next year as a rebuilding year,” Coach Devins explained. “We’ve got a solid core and a lot of new talent coming in. There’s plenty to be excited about.”
If 2025 was about proving they belong, 2026 may be about pushing even further.
Offseason Priorities: Sharpening Skills and Smarts
To take the next step, Mitchell is focused on basketball IQ and shooting efficiency.
“We want to improve our overall basketball IQ and team shooting percentage,” Coach Devins said.
That means more than just putting up shots in the gym. It means film study, understanding game situations, spacing, decision-making, and sharpening the fundamentals. With postseason success often hinging on late-game decisions and shooting execution, the Mustangs know exactly where to target their efforts this summer.
Follow the Journey
Fans, families, and basketball enthusiasts can follow the team’s progress and player stats through https://www.maxpreps.com/fl/new-port-richey/mitchell-mustangs/basketball/girls/stats/. With a dedicated coaching staff and an energized roster, the Mitchell Mustangs are poised to remain a team to watch in the Florida high school basketball landscape.
Final Thoughts: A Program Reborn
The 2025 season was a defining chapter in J.W. Mitchell Girls Basketball history. From earning their first state playoff berth in 14 years to developing a roster filled with rising stars, the Mustangs showed the heart, hustle, and hope of a program on the rise.
Coach Devins and his players didn’t just aim to compete—they aimed to change the narrative. And they did.
With returning talent, growing community support, and the momentum of a historic season, the future of Mitchell Girls Basketball is brighter than ever.
, Sydney Reinhart (#3), and Malaya Hunter (#2). Whether it was stepping into key minutes, showing poise in pressure moments, or simply improving in practice every day, these players illustrated the depth and potential of the program.
Their development not only added immediate value this season but also served as a preview of what’s to come.
Composure Under Pressure
A team’s true character is often revealed in moments of adversity. For Mitchell, 2025 was full of challenges—tight games, pressure-packed situations, and the occasional injury—but the team showed unwavering resilience.
“We were a very resilient group,” Coach Devins noted. “They responded well to challenges and pressure.”
Whether bouncing back from losses or grinding out close wins, the Mustangs developed a mental toughness that carried them through the ups and downs of a long season. That kind of composure can’t be taught overnight—it’s earned through experience, and Mitchell certainly earned theirs.
Senior Leadership Leaves a Lasting Legacy
Every successful team has a foundation of leadership, and this year’s senior class provided just that. With strong performances and contagious energy, the seniors not only set the standard on the court but also modeled the kind of effort and attitude required for sustained success.
“They brought strong performance and energy,” said Coach Devins. “Their presence helped elevate the program.”
As they graduate, they leave behind more than just stats—they leave behind a new culture of excellence and belief, one that future Mustangs can follow.
Building for the Future
The good news for Mustang fans? This isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning.
Coach Devins is particularly excited about what’s coming next: eight returning players and a wave of new talent entering the program. That combination of experience and potential sets the stage for another strong season ahead.
“I don’t see next year as a rebuilding year,” Coach Devins explained. “We’ve got a solid core and a lot of new talent coming in. There’s plenty to be excited about.”
If 2025 was about proving they belong, 2026 may be about pushing even further.
Offseason Priorities: Sharpening Skills and Smarts
To take the next step, Mitchell is focused on basketball IQ and shooting efficiency.
“We want to improve our overall basketball IQ and team shooting percentage,” Coach Devins said.
That means more than just putting up shots in the gym. It means film study, understanding game situations, spacing, decision-making, and sharpening the fundamentals. With postseason success often hinging on late-game decisions and shooting execution, the Mustangs know exactly where to target their efforts this summer.
Follow the Journey
Fans, families, and basketball enthusiasts can follow the team’s progress and player stats through https://www.maxpreps.com/fl/new-port-richey/mitchell-mustangs/basketball/girls/stats/. With a dedicated coaching staff and an energized roster, the Mitchell Mustangs are poised to remain a team to watch in the Florida high school basketball landscape.
Final Thoughts: A Program Reborn
The 2025 season was a defining chapter in J.W. Mitchell Girls Basketball history. From earning their first state playoff berth in 14 years to developing a roster filled with rising stars, the Mustangs showed the heart, hustle, and hope of a program on the rise.
Coach Devins and his players didn’t just aim to compete—they aimed to change the narrative. And they did.
With returning talent, growing community support, and the momentum of a historic season, the future of Mitchell Girls Basketball is brighter than ever.)
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