Lancaster Mennonite Boys Basketball: A 2025 Season of Growth, Grit, and Greatness
The 2025 season was nothing short of remarkable for the Lancaster Mennonite High School varsity boys basketball team. Under the guidance of Coach Jeff Hartenstine, the team posted an impressive 23-5 record, clinched their section title, made a run to the district finals, and advanced all the way to the Pennsylvania State semifinals. Along the way, the Blazers demonstrated not only skill and strategy but also heart, discipline, and unity.
Coach Hartenstine’s leadership and the collective efforts of a dynamic group of players turned this season into a showcase of the program’s rising potential. With only one senior on the roster and several young talents stepping into larger roles, the 2025 campaign may well be remembered as the launchpad for even greater things to come.
Leaders on the Court
The Blazers were anchored by a trio of standout contributors, each bringing unique value to the floor:
Chase Hurst (#21) was the team’s heartbeat—a leader, top scorer, rebounder, and lockdown defender. His ability to impact every phase of the game made him indispensable. Whether it was through clutch plays, grit on defense, or leading by example, Hurst’s presence was central to the team’s identity.
Cody Fisher (#22) delivered offensive fireworks night in and night out. As the team’s most potent scorer, Fisher combined deep shooting range, highlight-worthy dunks, and a relentless drive to win. His competitive edge fueled the Blazers’ scoring runs and helped them stretch defenses with his three-point accuracy.
Bill Rothwein (#33) brought a no-nonsense mentality, leading through rebounding, defensive intensity, and high basketball IQ. He was the engine of Lancaster Mennonite’s toughness, injecting energy and focus whenever it was needed most.
Together, these three players created a foundation of leadership, production, and intangibles that carried the team through a challenging and rewarding season.
A Season to Remember
Coach Hartenstine summarized the year in one word: “Good.” That might be an understatement.
With a 23-5 overall record, the Blazers captured their section title, made it to the league quarterfinals, and fought their way to the district finals, where they faced off against Trinity High School in what Coach Hartenstine called a defining game. From there, the team continued its journey through the PA State playoffs, making it all the way to the semifinals—a deep postseason run that showcased their growth, resilience, and rising profile in Pennsylvania high school basketball.
There’s no doubt that Lancaster Mennonite’s 2025 campaign marked a major milestone in the program’s trajectory.
A Turning Point at the District Finals
The Blazers’ matchup against Trinity High School in the district finals was a crucial moment in the season. While Coach Hartenstine didn’t go into deep detail, calling it the turning point of the year speaks volumes.
Games like these are where experience is earned, nerves are tested, and true character is revealed. Regardless of the outcome, facing a top-tier opponent in a high-stakes setting sharpened the team’s edge and prepared them for their eventual state semifinal run.
Rising Stars Make Their Mark
With only one senior on the roster, Lancaster Mennonite’s future is bright, and the 2025 season saw several underclassmen rise to the occasion.
#23 Daulton Nolt (Sophomore) grew into a bigger role as the season progressed, offering valuable minutes and demonstrating the kind of development that coaches dream of from their young core.
#32 Jackson Bare (Freshman) also stepped up and made an impression, showing maturity beyond his years. His early impact bodes well for what could become a standout high school career.
These young players didn’t just fill in gaps—they became part of the foundation, learning the system, embracing the team culture, and contributing meaningfully in big moments.
Resilience and Unity
Injuries are a common obstacle during the long basketball season, but the Blazers were fortunate to stay healthy throughout their campaign. However, that didn’t mean the path was easy.
The team grew stronger through tough losses, learning from setbacks and developing the poise required to compete at a high level. According to Coach Hartenstine, the group was “very close,” and that chemistry showed on the court. Whether dealing with a hot-shooting opponent or a cold streak of their own, Lancaster Mennonite stuck together and trusted their process.
A Senior’s Final Stand
While the roster was young, the team did bid farewell to one graduating senior, Jordan Lilly. Though not the top scorer or rebounder, Lilly’s contributions were immeasurable in other ways. He was a high-energy defender, a tenacious competitor, and someone who could shift the momentum of a game with his hustle and heart.
“He was a tough defender, high-energy guy. Really changed some games with his competitiveness,” said Coach Hartenstine.
Lilly leaves behind a legacy of effort and leadership that younger players can look up to as they prepare to take the reins.
Looking Ahead: Potential Meets Preparation
With nearly the entire team returning and young talent ready to take on greater roles, the future is promising for Lancaster Mennonite. Coach Hartenstine is particularly excited about the experience his returning players now possess and their hunger to keep improving.
“This group got a lot of experience this year,” he said. That experience will be invaluable as the Blazers aim to build on their 2025 success.
The focus heading into the offseason will be on improving offensive chemistry and playing at a faster pace, both elements that could elevate the team to an even higher level next season.
 was the team’s heartbeat—a leader, top scorer, rebounder, and lockdown defender. His ability to impact every phase of the game made him indispensable. Whether it was through clutch plays, grit on defense, or leading by example, Hurst’s presence was central to the team’s identity.
Cody Fisher (#22) delivered offensive fireworks night in and night out. As the team’s most potent scorer, Fisher combined deep shooting range, highlight-worthy dunks, and a relentless drive to win. His competitive edge fueled the Blazers’ scoring runs and helped them stretch defenses with his three-point accuracy.
Bill Rothwein (#33) brought a no-nonsense mentality, leading through rebounding, defensive intensity, and high basketball IQ. He was the engine of Lancaster Mennonite’s toughness, injecting energy and focus whenever it was needed most.
Together, these three players created a foundation of leadership, production, and intangibles that carried the team through a challenging and rewarding season.
A Season to Remember
Coach Hartenstine summarized the year in one word: “Good.” That might be an understatement.
With a 23-5 overall record, the Blazers captured their section title, made it to the league quarterfinals, and fought their way to the district finals, where they faced off against Trinity High School in what Coach Hartenstine called a defining game. From there, the team continued its journey through the PA State playoffs, making it all the way to the semifinals—a deep postseason run that showcased their growth, resilience, and rising profile in Pennsylvania high school basketball.
There’s no doubt that Lancaster Mennonite’s 2025 campaign marked a major milestone in the program’s trajectory.
A Turning Point at the District Finals
The Blazers’ matchup against Trinity High School in the district finals was a crucial moment in the season. While Coach Hartenstine didn’t go into deep detail, calling it the turning point of the year speaks volumes.
Games like these are where experience is earned, nerves are tested, and true character is revealed. Regardless of the outcome, facing a top-tier opponent in a high-stakes setting sharpened the team’s edge and prepared them for their eventual state semifinal run.
Rising Stars Make Their Mark
With only one senior on the roster, Lancaster Mennonite’s future is bright, and the 2025 season saw several underclassmen rise to the occasion.
#23 Daulton Nolt (Sophomore) grew into a bigger role as the season progressed, offering valuable minutes and demonstrating the kind of development that coaches dream of from their young core.
#32 Jackson Bare (Freshman) also stepped up and made an impression, showing maturity beyond his years. His early impact bodes well for what could become a standout high school career.
These young players didn’t just fill in gaps—they became part of the foundation, learning the system, embracing the team culture, and contributing meaningfully in big moments.
Resilience and Unity
Injuries are a common obstacle during the long basketball season, but the Blazers were fortunate to stay healthy throughout their campaign. However, that didn’t mean the path was easy.
The team grew stronger through tough losses, learning from setbacks and developing the poise required to compete at a high level. According to Coach Hartenstine, the group was “very close,” and that chemistry showed on the court. Whether dealing with a hot-shooting opponent or a cold streak of their own, Lancaster Mennonite stuck together and trusted their process.
A Senior’s Final Stand
While the roster was young, the team did bid farewell to one graduating senior, Jordan Lilly. Though not the top scorer or rebounder, Lilly’s contributions were immeasurable in other ways. He was a high-energy defender, a tenacious competitor, and someone who could shift the momentum of a game with his hustle and heart.
“He was a tough defender, high-energy guy. Really changed some games with his competitiveness,” said Coach Hartenstine.
Lilly leaves behind a legacy of effort and leadership that younger players can look up to as they prepare to take the reins.
Looking Ahead: Potential Meets Preparation
With nearly the entire team returning and young talent ready to take on greater roles, the future is promising for Lancaster Mennonite. Coach Hartenstine is particularly excited about the experience his returning players now possess and their hunger to keep improving.
“This group got a lot of experience this year,” he said. That experience will be invaluable as the Blazers aim to build on their 2025 success.
The focus heading into the offseason will be on improving offensive chemistry and playing at a faster pace, both elements that could elevate the team to an even higher level next season.)
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