Blue Jay girls have same core, more skilled on the court

Dec. 3—JAMESTOWN — There hasn't been that many changes made to the Jamestown High School girls basketball roster in the last few years.

That could be very helpful to the Blue Jays this season.

"Now that many of our core players are upperclassmen, I'm expecting them to take on more leadership both on and off the court," JHS head coach Andy Skunberg said. "Their experience over the past few years has prepared them to handle increased responsibilities, and I look for them to set a strong example for the younger players.

"This leadership should help us build team chemistry, improve our overall performance and push the team to reach new heights this season," he said. "We're excited to see how they continue to grow and influence the team's success."

In the past two years, there has only been one girl who left the Jamestown High School girls basketball team due to graduation. Leah Trumbauer graduated in May 2025. The Blue Jays will have three seniors — Mea Ulland, Haley Attleson and Mari Anderson — on their roster this season.

"They have had two or three years varsity experience so they know what to expect this upcoming season," Skunberg said.

Juniors Adisyn Yunck, Amelia Newman and Hannah Attleson are also expected to be back for their third season with the Blue Jay varsity crew. Freshman Macey Neumiller will be back for a second-go-around with the Jays.

Since the 2024-25 season ended in the WDA Tournament loser-out game, Skunberg said many of his players spent time in the gym, working to develop their skills.

"Since last year, the girls have shown great growth in their skill set," Skunberg said. "They've improved their ball handling, shooting accuracy and defensive abilities. We've also focused on developing their decision-making and teamwork, which has helped them perform more confidently under pressure. Overall, their dedication and hard work have really paid off, and I'm excited to see how they continue to develop this season."

Skunberg said the Blue Jay girls program is expecting around 30 girls out this season.

"We have a very competitive group of girls nine through 12 so that will make practice fun and exciting," Skunberg said. "I know many of the girls have put in a bunch of time this offseason so it will be fun to see whomever steps up this year."

The Blue Jays began practices on Nov. 24. Since hitting the court, Skunberg said his squad's biggest offensive threat is the ability to push the pace and spread the floor.

"We can score in transition, but we're also confident in our half-court sets because we have multiple shooters and playmakers," Skunberg said. "When the ball moves and we stay aggressive, it puts a lot of pressure on the defense.

"Our biggest strength skill-wise is our versatility," he said. "We've got players who can handle the ball, shoot from the outside and attack the rim. Everyone can make plays for themselves and for others, which makes it hard for teams to key in on one person."

When on defense, Skunberg said the team's intensity and communication will be hard to compete against.

"We can switch, pressure the ball and force turnovers that lead to easy buckets," Skunberg said. "We have girls that do a great job in rebounding. When we lock in on that end, it will set the tone for the whole game."

Skunberg's crew will play its first game on Dec. 5 at Grand Forks Central. Tipoff time is set for 5:45 p.m.

"We want people to know this team plays with heart," Skunberg said. "They work hard, they care about each other, and they represent Jamestown with pride. We're excited to get started."