CHOCTAW YELLOWJACKETS
Coach: Jermaine Simpson
23-24 Record: 22-5
OUTLOOK
Graduation has taken its toll on the Yellowjackets, but head coach Jermaine Simpson believes the right pieces are in place to continue living up to the standard set by teams of the past.
“After graduating eight seniors we will have some adjustments to make this season. One returning fulltime starter, two players that started 5-to-8 games throughout the season and adding new players that played big minutes in the state tournament the previous year,” said coach Simpson.
Jayden Hopkins (6-0, Jr.) is the returning player everything will run through this season at point guard. Hopkins is considered a top five player in the 2026 class and coach Simpson believes there is an argument to say Hopkins is one of the top players regardless of class. Hopkins will be depended on heavily this season, but he does not need to do it alone. Jordan Valentine (6-6, Jr.) is a shooting guard who continues to grow and is one of the best defenders in the state. Valentine can shoot the three as well.
Steven Anderson (6-0, Jr.) is another guard who can play the point. Anderson has worked on his game this season and is expected to perform at a high level. Quietin Moore (6-5, Sr.) and Millet Steelman (6-7, Sr.) are two forwards looking to help this team in the paint and around the rim.
Other players to watch include Jayden Pittman (6-1, Sr.) at guard, Titus Hawk (6-8, So.) at forward, Isarael Hammons (6-3, So.) at forward, Braylen Taylor (6-4, Jr.) at forward, Joseph Dewey (6-5, Jr.) at wing, Bryce Thompson (6-2, Jr.) at guard, and Terry Mack (6-4, Jr.) at wing.
