Coral Springs, FL: For the first time in over 15 years, the Coral Glades Jaguars have clawed their way back to the Broward County Athletics Association (BCAA) Big 8 basketball tournament.
This milestone is a testament to the team’s resilience, skill, and determination, as they overcame fierce competition and significant challenges to earn their spot among Broward County’s elite high school basketball teams.
BIG 8!!!!!!!!!!!!
— Coral Glades Boy Basketball (@cghs_jags_hoops) January 22, 2025
It’s official your Jaguars have made the Big 8 for the second time in school history. The last Jaguar group to make it was in 2008 where they were lead by standout forward Bryce Johnson @Bstr0ke pic.twitter.com/AC64LUDeii
The Big 8 tournament, renowned for showcasing the best high school basketball talent in the region, is a stage that many teams aspire to but few achieve. Coral Glades’ return marks a significant turnaround for a program that has worked tirelessly to build a competitive edge since its last appearance in 2008.
Coral Glades, Stranahan, Pembroke Pines Charter, Blanche Ely, St. Thomas Aquinas, Western, Chaminade-Madonna, and Cardnial Gibbons were the eight team selected to compete in the Big 8.
The Jaguars’ journey to the Big 8 did not come without its struggles. Under the leadership of head coach Stefan “Ham” Whittingham, the team focused on fostering a culture of hard work, teamwork, and discipline.
“As a player I always wanted to make it but we weren’t able to get it done, so seeing these boys work hard from literally a week and a half after our season ended last year to being here now just says so much about this group. I can’t say that I am surprised because they earned it,” said Coach Ham.
Team captains Kyler Theophile (avg. 12.3 PPG, 53% FG) and Gavin Reed (avg. 13.6 PPG) have been pivotal in driving the team’s success, contributing both offensively and defensively. The Jaguars’ balanced attack and aggressive defense have made them a formidable force on the court, earning the respect of their peers and competitors alike.
“To me personally, winning would mean a lot, but not the most because we are chasing something even bigger. It would still be significant because I haven’t won anything in high school school yet,” said Theophile. “For the school it would show that anybody has a chance to do anything big.”
For many of the players, this achievement is more than just a victory; it’s a legacy. Senior guard Anthony Valdes played for Coral Glades back in 2021-2022 when the team was 6-17. While the guard played elsewhere for some of his high school career, coming back to the school where it all started meant something special to him.
“It was an incredible learning experience to see a program grow from nothing into something. Being part of the cultural shift was truly special, and this year, it feels like we’re continuing to make history,” said Valdes.
As the Jaguars prepare to face off against some of the top teams in the Big 8 tournament, their focus remains sharp. With a mix of veteran leadership and young talent, Coral Glades is determined to make its mark and prove it belongs on this stage.
“Getting a win would show everybody Coral Glades basketball has a lot of potential to do something special this season and in years to come,” said Reed. “It would be a big accomplishment just for how hard we have been working as a team.”
Whether they walk away with the championship or not, the Jaguars have already made history. The Jaguars continued to climb up the ladder in state, region, and district rankings throughout the season where the Jaguars currently rank 34th in the state and 2nd in District 13 (Class 7A).
The Coral Glades Jaguars’ journey to the BCAA Big 8 is a reminder of what can be achieved through persistence and teamwork. As they take the court, they carry not only their school’s hopes but also a legacy of grit and determination that will inspire future generations of athletes.
“I inherited a 6-17 team three seasons ago, and for us to have three winning seasons back-to-back to back just means the world to me. Our program has grown so much from being guaranteed win on other teams schedule to teams not wanting to play us,” said Coach Ham.
Coral Glades will face off against Pembroke Pines Charter School in the Big 8 Quarterfinal on Jan. 30, at 8:30 p.m. at Fort Lauderdale High School.
