The 2025-26 girls’ basketball season is set to commence in the Schuylkill League, with teams eager to make their mark. Last season, the Schuylkill Haven Hurricanes clinched the league title by defeating North Schuylkill 38-31 in the championship game. The Hurricanes then advanced to the District XI Class 3A finals, finishing as runners-up and reaching the second round of the state playoffs. The regular season is scheduled to kick off on November 28, with league play for both Division I and Division II starting on December 4. Key dates to note include the league playoffs beginning on February 7, district playoffs on February 14, and state playoffs on February 28.
Coaching Changes and New Leadership
Significant coaching changes are shaping the landscape of the league this season. Former Marian head coach Damian Fritz has taken the helm at Pottsville, bringing a wealth of experience after leading Marian to a remarkable 91-20 record and two District XI Championships over four seasons. Stepping into Fritz’s role at Marian is Jeanette Shafer Brown, who will embark on her inaugural varsity coaching position.
In a move to revitalize the Nativity program, William Reed, a former boys’ basketball assistant, will lead the team, aiming to improve upon last season’s dismal 1-21 record. The Tri-Valley Bulldogs have also appointed a new coach, Kaylin Ryan, a former standout at Pine Grove, who will strive to uplift a team that finished with a 4-18 record last year.
Returning Stars and Division Outlook
This season features a strong roster of returning All-Area selections across the league. Mya Conti of North Schuylkill, named co-player of the year by the Republican-Herald, leads a talented group that includes first-team selections McKenna Runkle (Schuylkill Haven), Addison Fritz, and Deanna Pugh (Marian Catholic). Second-team returnees include Morgan Orsulak (Panther Valley), Felicia Bro (Mahanoy Area), and Jo Barnhart (Pottsville).
Division I is poised to be highly competitive, with Schuylkill Haven favored to defend its title. Coach Tony Sanders returns key players, including Runkle, who averaged 11.1 points per game, and senior Audrey Hutchinson, who contributed 7.3 points per game. Tamaqua, which finished last season with an 18-7 record, also returns four starters, including junior Lauren Ligenza, who averaged 13.4 points per game.
North Schuylkill will look to build on its successful 19-8 record from last season, with Conti leading a deep roster that includes several returning players. Pine Grove aims to improve its 14-9 record, relying on a trio of returning starters: senior Callee Leffler, junior Meadow Umbenhauer, and sophomore Hollyn Sampson.
Teams hoping to find success as underdogs this season include Blue Mountain, Minersville, Panther Valley, and Pottsville. Blue Mountain, under the guidance of coach Rose Carper, looks to bounce back from an 8-15 season, while Minersville, despite a 2-20 record last year, aims to leverage its returning starters for improvement.
In Division II, Lourdes, Williams Valley, and Marian are expected to continue their dominance. Lourdes made a notable run to the state semifinals last season, and returns key players such as junior Hanna Lokitis and sophomore Kylla Sandri. Williams Valley, coming off a 24-4 season, is aiming for back-to-back district championships with a solid lineup returning.
Marian, under new coach Brown, faces the challenge of replacing key players but retains talent in Deanna Pugh and Addy Marek. Mahanoy Area is also expected to be competitive, led by senior Felicia Bro and Ella Connolly.
As the season unfolds, teams and players will be eager to demonstrate their skills on the court. The Schuylkill League’s dynamics are set to provide thrilling matchups, and fans can anticipate an engaging season ahead.
