2025 Winter Season Recap: J.W. Mitchell JV Girls Basketball – A Season to Remember
The 2025 Winter Season was nothing short of extraordinary for the J.W. Mitchell High School Junior Varsity (JV) Girls Basketball team, led by Head Coach Ryan Reinhart. With a remarkable record of 20 wins and only 2 losses, the team dominated their competition, outscoring opponents by an average of more than 19 points per game. It was a season filled with growth, resilience, and a strong foundation laid for the future.
Key Contributors and Impact Players
At the heart of this outstanding season was sophomore standout Tania Hunter, whose name came up repeatedly in conversations about leadership, performance, and team identity. Coach Reinhart was quick to point out that Tania was the backbone of the squad, both on and off the court. She not only delivered consistent performances in games but also brought a mature sense of focus and leadership that helped keep the team grounded throughout the highs and lows of the season.
Tania’s younger sister, Yana Hunter, a freshman point guard, also made a big impression in her debut season. Her natural court vision and poise under pressure elevated the team’s play significantly. Though she missed about a week of action due to an injury, her impact was deeply felt when she was on the court. Her ability to control the tempo and distribute the ball set the tone for the offense.
Another major contributor was Avery Pico, who, according to Coach Reinhart, grew significantly into her role as the season progressed. Avery’s development and increased confidence were key elements in several of the team’s most critical matchups.
The front court trio of Anya Dziena, Tania Hunter, and Jireh Crenshaw also deserves credit, particularly during the period when Yana was sidelined. They stepped up to fill the gap, showcasing the team’s depth and commitment to collective effort.
A Season of Highs and Milestones
Coach Reinhart summed up the season simply: “It went very well.” That statement, however understated, speaks volumes when paired with the team’s stellar record and dominant performances.
One of the major highlights was the team's championship win at the Keswick Christian JV Tournament. This tournament proved to be a defining moment for the girls, serving as both a confidence booster and a showcase of their ability to perform under pressure. Winning the tournament not only validated their hard work but also became a pivotal turning point, galvanizing the team’s belief in their championship potential.
Growth and Development
One of the most rewarding aspects of the season, according to Coach Reinhart, was watching players grow into their roles and step up when needed. In addition to Tania and Yana, the development of players like Avery Pico was vital. The increased maturity and performance of these athletes provided stability and allowed for creative plays and strong defensive stands throughout the season.
The season also presented its share of challenges, including injuries and high-stakes games. When Yana was out for a week, it could have derailed the team’s momentum. Instead, it became an opportunity for others to rise to the occasion. Anya Dziena, Tania Hunter, and Jireh Crenshaw formed a solid frontcourt that helped maintain the team's intensity and effectiveness during that stretch. This resilience in the face of adversity was a testament to the team's unity and preparation.
Leadership from the Top
Although JV teams don't typically feature many seniors, the leadership of Tania Hunter stood out. Her presence extended beyond stats and highlights—she brought an unwavering focus and energy that inspired her teammates to push harder. Coach Reinhart praised her ability to guide the team through tough moments and maintain their competitive edge throughout the long season.
Looking to the Future
The outlook for the J.W. Mitchell JV Girls Basketball program is incredibly promising. Coach Reinhart expressed great excitement about the returning core group of five players, who now bring a full season of experience and success under their belts.
What makes the future even brighter is the incoming wave of talent. Ten players will be joining the team from an undefeated 8-0 middle school team, bringing with them a winning mentality and fundamental skills. This infusion of youth and energy is expected to deepen the talent pool and raise the overall competitiveness of the team.
Coach Reinhart is particularly focused on refining the team’s shooting ability during the offseason. “We want to become better jump shooters,” he stated, pointing out the team’s ongoing commitment to improvement, even after such a dominant season.
Where to Find More
Fans and supporters looking for more in-depth stats and game breakdowns can find them on MaxPreps.com, where J.W. Mitchell’s JV Girls Basketball page is regularly updated with performance data, game recaps, and player statistics.
Conclusion
The 2025 Winter Season was a landmark year for J.W. Mitchell’s JV Girls Basketball program. Under the guidance of Coach Ryan Reinhart, the team not only achieved a stellar record but also cultivated a culture of hard work, resilience, and leadership. With standout performers like Tania and Yana Hunter, and emerging talents like Avery Pico and Jireh Crenshaw, the team proved themselves as a force to be reckoned with.
As the season closes and attention turns toward development and next year’s goals, one thing is certain: the future of J.W. Mitchell Girls Basketball is in very capable hands. Whether it's building on shooting skills, integrating new talent, or continuing to develop young leaders, the program is on a strong upward trajectory—and the 2025 season was just the beginning.
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