In an amazing season filled with outstanding players, Whatcom Hoops is ranking the top 30 girls. Each day we’ll feature an outstanding player in our county and count down until we get to #1. So join us daily as we honor the best of the best.
#5
Jemma James, junior, Lummi Nation
WHY SHE’S #5: The tireless 5-foot-5 dynamo was the driving force behind the Lady Blackhawks team that averaged more than 65 points a game, won by an average margin of 35 points, and tied for the highest state finish in school history (fourth). A four-year starting point guard who could drive, pass, or shoot the 3 with the best of them, James averaged 18.1 points, 4.5 assists (second in the county), 5.7 steals (first), and even 6.6 rebounds while making 70 3-pointers (second). In addition to being named the Northwest 1B League player of the year once again, Eli Sports Network named her to the Class 1B state all-tournament first team.
COACH DAVID JAMES: “Jemma is one of the top players in the county and keeps getting better every year. A true captain and leader on the floor, she plays hard, makes big plays, and gets everyone around her going. After an amazing junior season, she’s ready to take over as a senior and lead this team to the next level. Jemma isn’t just a star, she’s the engine of our program, and we can’t wait to see her shine even more.”
NOTE: Thank you to the coaches and to Tyler Anderson of WhatcomPreps.com for season stats.
Links to previous Whatcom Hoops Top 30
#6: Grace DeHoog, Nooksack Valley
#7: Ailina Rabang, Lummi Nation
#9: Tyra Dykstra, Lynden Christian
#11: Brooklyn Larrabee, Ferndale
#13: Payton Bartl, Nooksack Valley
#16: Jordy Reeder, Lummi Nation
#17: Merritt Jensen, Bellingham
#19: Addison Kettman, Squalicum
#21: Kayla Washington, Ferndale
#22: Mary Lockhart, Bellingham
#26: Ellie Pierce, Lynden Christian
#27: Jocelyn Eshuis, Lynden Christian
#28: Tiana Thompson, Squalicum
#29: Brianna Metteba, Lummi Nation
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