BRAGGS WILDCATS
BOYS
Coach: SCOTT HENSLEY
23-24 Record: 26-6
The Braggs Wildcats are coming off a stellar 2023 season that saw them achieve a 26-6 record. Head coach Scott Hensley is excited about the 2024 campaign, highlighting the return of five starters from last year’s squad and the continued improvement of the team as a whole.
“We had a very successful season last year,” Hensley said. “We graduated two young men from that team, but all of our returning starters have improved their games since last season. We’re very excited about the upcoming season.”
Leading the Wildcats is junior guard Daryl Winter (6-2, Jr.), who was last season’s top scorer, averaging 13.0 points pergame. Winter’s athleticism and ability to finish at the rim make him a key offensive weapon for Braggs. Joining him in the backcourt is senior guard Jaylen Melton (5-9, Sr.), a four-year starter who has scored over 1,000 career points and recorded 800 assists. Melton’s unselfishness and hustle set the tone for the Wildcats’ fast-paced play. The frontcourt is anchored by senior forward Sam Hensley (6-2, Sr.), who combines his strength and athleticism to contribute 8.0 points per game. Hensley’s leadership extends beyond the court, as he recently joined the National Guard and plans to pursue further training after graduation. Fellow senior Trey Ashley (6-1, Sr.) provides steady scoring and defense, averaging 8.0 points per game last season. Junior forward Hazen Edwards (6-0, Jr.) is another player to watch, thanks to his relentless motor and defensive tenacity. Edwards is quickly emerging as one of the Wildcats’ top scoring options, averaging 8.0 points per game while excelling on the boards and as a defender.
Coach Hensley also has high hopes for players like junior guard Burr Jaynes (5-10, Jr.), who contributed 6.0 points per game, and senior forward Mengla Xiong (5-10, Sr.), a hard-working and selfless teammate who inspires his peers with his determination.
With underclassmen such as freshman forward Dylan Ross (6-0, Fr.) and freshman guard Ryker Ellis (5-8, Fr.), the Wildcats’ depth looks promising for the future. Sophomore guard Lakota Martin (5-8, So.) and the rest of the bench add valuable depth to the roster, ensuring that Braggs can maintain its high-energy style of play throughout the season.
