The 2025–26 season was one defined by growth, resilience and steady improvement for the Powell High School JV boys’ basketball team, which finished with an impressive 13-8 record.

The year began with some early challenges, as the team worked to find its rhythm during the opening tournament, going 1-2. However, that slow start quickly gave way to momentum. Powell responded by winning six of its next seven games, building a 7-3 record and establishing itself as a competitive and cohesive unit.

Several games throughout the season came down to the wire. In fact, four contests were decided by three points or fewer — games that could have gone either way. While not all those results fell in Powell’s favor, they highlighted both the competitiveness of the team and the unpredictable beauty of the game.

The roster featured a balanced mix of experience and youth, including five juniors, six sophomores and two freshmen. Each player contributed in meaningful ways, helping the team develop depth and versatility. With anywhere from 10 to 13 players rotating off the bench, I emphasized teamwork, adaptability, and unselfish play — qualities the group embraced as the season progressed.

Powell closed the regular season on a high note, winning its final three games. That late surge reflected the significant strides made, particularly on the defensive end. Increased physicality, better rebounding and improved communication became the team’s identity.

Offensively, the team showcased both balance and firepower. Sophomore Karcher Foley led the team in scoring, averaging nine points per game, followed closely by junior Eli Dahlman with eight and junior Cody Fisher with seven. Beyond the leading scorers, contributions came from throughout the roster.

The Panthers also proved to be a threat from beyond the arc. Foley, Dahlman, Fisher, along with junior Kason Sherman and freshman Trey Schultz, all connected on double-digit 3-pointers during the season — providing a spark in key moments and helping swing momentum in tight games.

Inside the paint, players such as Braxton Nelson, Sawyer Wormald, Gianreye D’Alessandro and Sean Ferguson played a crucial role on the boards. Their rebounding efforts created second-chance opportunities and fueled fast-break offense.

Playmaking was another strength, with freshman August Teten, sophomore Knox Johnson, and others consistently setting up teammates with quality assists during the season.

While the statistics tell part of the story, it was the team’s commitment to the “little things” that truly defined them. Hustle plays — diving for loose balls, winning 50-50 possessions, setting solid screens, and battling for rebounds — became the foundation of Powell’s success.

By season’s end, the growth of the team was unmistakable. From early adjustments to late-season execution, the players demonstrated determination, unselfishness, and a willingness to improve.

With a strong core returning and valuable experience gained, the future looks bright for Powell JV basketball.