Monterey Trail Girls Basketball: A Dominant League Season with Eyes on a Deeper Run
In the 2025 winter season, the Monterey Trail Mustangs girls basketball team emerged as a powerhouse in their league, finishing with a perfect 12-0 conference record and an impressive 19-6 overall. Under the leadership of Head Coach David Whitsett, the program built its identity on toughness, defense, and team unity—qualities that powered one of the strongest seasons in recent memory for the Mustangs.
While the postseason didn’t end the way they’d hoped, the Mustangs’ performance throughout the year was nothing short of exceptional. With a well-balanced mix of senior leadership and rising underclassmen, Monterey Trail looks poised to build on this year’s success and push even further in the seasons to come.
Defensive Identity and Team Contributions
This year’s squad was defined by a gritty, defense-first mentality. Seniors Alia and Sydney Wilson, both La Sierra University commits, were the tip of the spear on that end of the court. Whether it was locking down elite guards or disrupting opposing offenses, the Wilson twins provided consistent energy and leadership.
“They were our defensive stoppers, always handling the top guards,” said Coach Whitsett. “Their competitiveness and defensive tenacity really set the tone for the whole team.”
Offensively, junior Dalis Blackshire was a force at all three levels. Whether it was finishing inside, hitting from midrange, or attacking from the perimeter, Blackshire gave opposing defenses headaches with her versatility.
“Dalis is someone who can score at and against many levels,” Whitsett explained. “And she’s a great backside rebounder too—she really does it all.”
Down low, Jamiese Stigler and Nevaeh Butler were the Mustangs’ reliable frontcourt duo, forming a potent one-two punch in the paint. According to Whitsett, “Once they get it down low, it’s usually a bucket.” Their strength and presence in the key added a physical dimension to the Mustangs’ game, giving the team balance across all positions.
League Domination and Season Highlights
Monterey Trail put together an unblemished 12-0 league record, asserting dominance every time they stepped on the court. It was a statement of consistency and control in a league that presented multiple competitive matchups.
“Our season went really well,” said Whitsett. “Even with a disappointing playoff game, it was still one for the record books.”
Finishing 19-6 overall, the Mustangs proved themselves against both local rivals and non-conference competition. Every game was a new test, and more often than not, they rose to the occasion.
One moment that stood out to the team came after a rare stumble.
“Our loss to Atwater seemed to light a fire,” Whitsett noted. “The girls got a little mad, and you could see it changed the way we played after that.”
That loss didn’t lead to a slump—it became a springboard. The team came back more motivated and focused, going on a tear through the rest of the schedule.
Player Growth and Emerging Stars
While the seniors led with experience, Coach Whitsett was quick to point out the growth of several younger players—most notably Jamiese Stigler.
“Jamiese is going to be a problem for teams next year,” Whitsett said with a grin. The sophomore forward blossomed into a reliable scorer and rebounder down the stretch, and her breakout has the coaching staff excited for what’s ahead.
Alongside her, other underclassmen began to embrace bigger roles, and the chemistry among the team’s younger core grew stronger with every game.
Mental Toughness and the “Next Woman Up” Mentality
Throughout the season, the Mustangs faced their share of challenges—be it injuries, tough opponents, or pressure-packed moments. What stood out most was how the team handled adversity.
“We’ve always had a ‘next woman up’ mentality,” said Whitsett. “No injuries or challenges truly affected us because everyone was always ready.”
This mindset kept the team grounded and resilient, regardless of who was on the court. Whether starters were out or shots weren’t falling, the Mustangs maintained their focus and stayed true to their identity: defense, effort, and teamwork.
Senior Leadership Leaves a Defensive Legacy
The senior class, led by Alia and Sydney Wilson, may not have filled the stat sheet every night, but their influence on the program went far beyond the box score.
“They brought competitiveness and defensive tenacity,” Whitsett said. “That kind of energy is contagious.”
Their contributions helped lay the foundation for the team’s mindset moving forward. As they graduate and head to the next level, they leave behind a team full of experienced returners who understand what it takes to win.
Bright Future Ahead
With a core of juniors ready to take the reins, the future of Monterey Trail girls basketball is bright. The returning group is more than just talented—they’re driven.
“This group of juniors is full of hard-working kids that really play for each other,” said Whitsett. “That excites me more than anything.”
Players like Dalis Blackshire, Jamiese Stigler, and Nevaeh Butler are expected to play even bigger roles next season. They’ve already shown they can compete—and win—at a high level. With another offseason of development, this squad is set to be even more dangerous in 2026.
Offseason Goals: Physicality and Preparation
Looking ahead, Coach Whitsett already has a clear focus for the offseason: getting tougher.
“Our physicality is something we need to improve,” he said. “I think we need to be a little more physical to take that next step.”
From strength training to refining fundamentals, the offseason will be all about turning potential into production and sharpening the tools needed to make a deeper playoff run.
Stay Updated
For fans looking to follow the Mustangs’ continued rise, game stats and player performances can be tracked on MaxPreps, where the team’s progress and accomplishments are documented in full.
Conclusion: A Season to Remember, and One to Build On
The 2025 Monterey Trail girls basketball season was one of unquestionable success—a perfect league record, a strong overall record, and a culture of resilience and unity that promises even greater achievements in the near future.
While a tough playoff exit left some unfinished business, it also planted the seeds of hunger and determination in a returning group that’s ready to grow. Coach Whitsett and the Mustangs aren’t satisfied—they’re motivated.
And if this year is any indication, the rest of the league better be ready.
Because the Monterey Trail is just getting started.
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