Ocean Lakes Girls Basketball Finds Its Groove in 2025: A Season of Growth, Grit, and Milestones
Under the leadership of Head Coach Leisa Merriweather, the Ocean Lakes High School Girls Varsity Basketball team delivered a thrilling and memorable 2025 season that showcased resilience, breakout performances, and program-defining moments. With a playoff berth, a top-five finish in the ultra-competitive Beach District, and several individual milestones, the Dolphins left their mark and are primed for an even brighter future.
Core Contributors Power the Dolphins' Success
At the heart of Ocean Lakes' impressive campaign were three standout players: Maddi Fisher, Samara Williams, and Jasmyn Miller, each making essential contributions in their respective roles.
Maddi Fisher, a senior and the team’s defensive anchor, routinely drew the assignment of guarding the opposing team's best player. Her defensive prowess was elite, averaging six steals per game, a stat that speaks to both her work ethic and basketball IQ. Maddi's relentless hustle and leadership made her a tone-setter every night.
Samara Williams, a rebounding machine and junior force in the paint, dominated the boards with an astounding average of 16 rebounds per game. Her presence inside gave Ocean Lakes second-chance opportunities and stabilized the defense. One of the season's most emotional moments came when Samara recorded her 1,000th career rebound as a junior, a milestone few ever reach and a testament to her consistency and drive.
On the offensive end, Jasmyn Miller took charge. The team’s leading scorer, she averaged 17 points per game, including three 3-pointers per contest, stretching defenses and creating space for her teammates. Jasmyn’s most unforgettable night came when she tied the school record by draining eight 3-pointers in a single game, a performance that electrified the crowd and cemented her place in Ocean Lakes basketball history.
A Season to Celebrate
Coach Merriweather summed it up succinctly:
“Our season was extremely successful. We won the games we were supposed to win—and threw in several surprise wins along the way.”
With smart adjustments and cohesive team play, the Dolphins climbed their way to a 5th-place finish in the Beach District and earned a spot in the playoffs. More than the wins, though, it was the character and unity of the team that defined the year.
Next Player Up: Rising Stars Embrace New Roles
One of the most impressive developments this season was the emergence of point guard Erin Broderick. Naturally a shooting guard, Erin embraced the challenge of stepping into the floor general role, averaging 7 assists per game and anchoring the team’s offense. Her growth and composure helped the team stay organized in high-pressure situations and kept the offense flowing.
“She truly led our team and kept us under control,” Coach Merriweather praised.
The team also leaned heavily on sophomore Kennedy Walls, who was thrust into a larger role after a key preseason injury to senior Tessa Verner, who tore her ACL before the season began. Kennedy responded admirably, averaging 8 points and 8 rebounds per game, providing a much-needed inside presence and showing flashes of future stardom.
Rising Through Adversity
Every season has its challenges, and for Ocean Lakes, it started before the opening tip. The loss of Tessa Verner, one of the team’s leaders, was a major blow. But rather than fold, the Dolphins adapted.
“We started the season with one of our key players tearing her ACL,” Coach Merriweather said. “But the team stepped up—especially Kennedy—and it made a big difference.”
Whether navigating injuries, tough losses, or tight contests, the squad developed a resilient identity, building trust and chemistry that carried them through rough stretches and into the postseason.
Seniors Leave a Lasting Legacy
While the Dolphins will lose just two players to graduation, the impact of Maddi Fisher and Tessa Verner on the program cannot be overstated. Their leadership, enthusiasm, and unwavering support for their teammates created a culture of energy and inclusiveness that Coach Merriweather deeply appreciated.
“Maddi and Tessa were true leaders,” she said. “They always got the team energized before each game and never stopped cheering on every player.”
Their presence, even through adversity, set a standard of dedication and heart that will guide the team’s younger players in seasons to come.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
If this season was a breakout, next season could be a breakthrough.
Ocean Lakes returns four of five starters, including stars Samara Williams and Jasmyn Miller, who are both within reach of joining the prestigious 1,000-point club. Their continued development will be crucial to building on the momentum of 2025.
Coach Merriweather is also excited about the arrival of a nearly 6-foot-tall incoming freshman, expected to add height and depth to the roster. Combined with an experienced core and strong team chemistry, the 2026 Dolphins could be among the district’s elite.
“I’m looking forward to next season,” she said. “We have the potential to be very special.”
Offseason Focus: Sharpening the Edges
Even with a strong foundation, Coach Merriweather is already planning how to take the program to the next level. The focus for the offseason will be:
Tougher, more aggressive team defense
Improved free-throw shooting, a common difference-maker in tight games
Overall conditioning and intensity, to keep up with top-tier competition
If those improvements come, Ocean Lakes won’t just aim for the playoffs—they’ll aim for titles.
Where to Follow the Dolphins
While Coach Merriweather didn’t list a stats link, Ocean Lakes basketball fans can expect updates via school channels, local athletic platforms, and postseason coverage. The team’s performances and individual achievements this year ensure that they’ll be a team to watch.
Final Thoughts: A Season to Remember
The 2025 Ocean Lakes Girls Varsity Basketball season was a story of resilience, leadership, and rising talent. From record-setting nights to milestone achievements, from early adversity to a playoff finish, this team proved what can happen when players buy in, step up, and play for one another.
As Coach Merriweather and her team turn their focus to the future, one thing is clear: Ocean Lakes basketball is building something special, and the journey is only just beginning.
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