In a season filled with learning curves, hard-fought battles, and standout performances, the New Brighton Varsity Basketball team laid the foundation for a promising future. Despite limited offseason prep and a roster that had to gel mid-season, the Lions battled through early adversity and emerged with strong chemistry, discipline, and potential.
Key Contributors and Standout Performances
This season’s success was a true team effort, but a few players shone in key roles. Rashawn Eleazer anchored the team as the leading rebounder and top three-point shooter, combining inside strength with perimeter efficiency. Joey Kennedy delivered with the team’s highest field goal percentage, providing consistency and smart shot selection. Meanwhile, Dash Graham led all scorers, showing his ability to take over games and keep New Brighton competitive throughout the year.
Season Highlights and Turning Points
While the Lions experienced some early struggles, the January 3rd matchup against Beaver Falls marked a clear turning point. Trailing by 11 at halftime, the team clawed back and captured an overtime win, snapping a losing streak and igniting a string of key section victories. That moment solidified the team’s belief in itself and marked the start of a more confident, connected unit.
Player Development and Emerging Leaders
Several players took major leaps as the season progressed. Jaxson Zahn, previously limited in varsity minutes, grew into a starter and leader both on and off the court. Carter Jackson made the jump from JV to become a vital varsity contributor, always ready to rise to the occasion. Seth Mendenhall, returning to the court after time away, became a spark off the bench in crucial moments, proving his value to the team’s rhythm and resilience.
Handling Adversity
Early in the season, the Lions struggled to close out tight games. But through tough losses and pressure situations, they embraced a team-first mentality. “You win as a team and lose as a team” became more than just a motto — it became a mindset that helped them grow, bounce back stronger, and secure more victories in close contests down the stretch.
Senior Leadership and Legacy
This year’s senior class brought character, leadership, and heart to the program. Isaac Kohlmeyer, a four-year player, provided crucial experience and helped raise the standards in the gym. Rashawn Eleazer led by example with relentless hustle and toughness, while Brock Budacki, returning to the game after years away, added intensity and positive energy that lifted the entire squad.
Looking Ahead
With players like Dash Graham, Jaxson Zahn, and Logan Blake returning — and a full offseason ahead — the Lions have every reason to be optimistic. The chemistry is building, leadership is emerging, and the hunger to improve is evident.
Offseason Focus & Next Steps
The coaching staff is excited to focus this offseason on continued team chemistry, offensive execution, and building physical and mental toughness. With the foundation now laid, the expectation is to compete — and win — at a higher level next season.
Stats and More
Full team and individual stats can be found on the school’s official athletics page or by request.
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