In Coach Christopher Sherman’s first year at the helm, Wilkinson County High School’s boys basketball program laid a strong foundation for future success. With only a few months of preparation, the Wildcats showed heart, hustle, and potential, making a late-season surge and earning a spot in the playoffs, a feat that surprised some but proved their resilience and talent.
Key Contributors & Player Impact
Several Wildcats stepped up in meaningful ways:
Ja'Norris Anthony – Leading scorer and all-around impact player. A fierce competitor and vocal leader who fills up the stat sheet and brings intensity on both ends. Entering his senior season, he’s expected to lead again.
Darien Tolliver – Top rebounder, showed growth in consistency and toughness. His junior season will be pivotal.
Oliver Packnett Jr. – Sharpshooter from three-point range, grew into a more versatile offensive player and occasional post presence.
Germarkus Patterson & Javien Ephion – Both demonstrated major growth as point guards, improving leadership and game management.
Jayden Dunbar – Defensive anchor with a season-high in blocks; a vocal leader and versatile defender.
Robert White – Streaky but dangerous shooter when confident; showed flashes of brilliance from deep.
Gartavion Woodside – A poised inside-out player who contributed on both ends with maturity and skill.
Season Recap
Despite limited time due to overlapping football commitments, the team developed chemistry and sharpened their skill set for the season. Coach Sherman called it “an impactful season,” highlighted by the team’s first win, which energized the squad and marked a turning point. From there, the Wildcats pushed hard to secure a playoff berth, showing the heart and grit that defined their year.
Standout Moments & Turning Points
First win of the season – Set the tone and injected belief into the team.
Clinching a playoff spot – A statement of resilience after many had counted them out.
These moments symbolized the culture shift under Coach Sherman’s leadership.
Player Development & Growth
Several underclassmen grew into larger roles:
Ja'Norris Anthony became a vocal leader.
Oliver Packnett Jr. and Darien Tolliver refined their offensive contributions.
Germarkus Patterson and Javien Ephion matured as playmakers.
La'Darrius Perry showed hunger and promise heading into his junior year.
Jalen Cain, a senior next season, is a potential breakout candidate with solid ball-handling and improved shooting.
Senior Leadership
Seniors Dunbar, White, and Woodside brought passion, leadership, and energy that helped elevate the entire team. Their competitive spirit proved contagious and set a tone for the returning group.
Looking Ahead
Coach Sherman is excited about a deep returning roster:
Ja'Norris Anthony, Darien Tolliver, and Oliver Packnett Jr. will form a strong core.
Cain, Perry, Ephion, Patterson, and Hans are expected to step up.
Defensive contributors like Darren Moody, Keondre Allen, and Braxton Winding will play key roles.
The offseason will focus on player development, strengthening fundamentals, and preparing for a “season to remember.”
Offseason Goals
Coach Sherman’s plan: “Improve every aspect of the game.” Confidence is growing within the program, and the Wildcats are committed to working hard, staying hungry, and chasing greatness.
“We are coming for everything that we want! GO WILDCATS!”
Where to Find Stats
Full season stats are available on MaxPreps. Be sure to follow Wilkinson County Boys Basketball to stay updated throughout the upcoming season.
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