"Complete Competitor: Lethal Spin, Knockdown Jumper, and Relentless Hustle"

Zander Whitaker

@zander_whitaker

IG: @zanderw23

6’1, 165lbs, Class of 2028

Jimtown HS, IN

Zander is dynamic, fearless, and willing to do whatever it takes to win. A versatile guard who can light it up from midrange or beyond the arc, he also has the ability to get to the rim and finish through traffic. His calling card is a fierce spin move that's as smooth as it is lethal, setting up easy buckets even against tight coverage. Despite being a guard, he mixes it up well on the glass, using his instincts and positioning to gobble up rebounds and create extra possessions. On defense, Zander’s hustle and commitment stand out; he’ll gladly take on the challenge of locking down the other team’s best scorer for the entire game if that’s what it takes. His high IQ and ability to read the floor allow him to make smart passes, create opportunities for teammates, and keep his team calm under pressure.

This past season, Zander averaged 14.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game despite missing varsity time due to injury. He turned that adversity into fuel, focusing on strength training, adding muscle, and improving his all-around game. His biggest improvement came in confidence and decision-making, learning that winning doesn’t mean forcing shots, but sticking to what works and impacting the game in multiple ways. His off-season grind paid off, regaining his shooting touch after breaking his arm and becoming one of Indiana Impact’s most consistent performers. On the 3SSB stage, he helped lead his team to a perfect 4-0 weekend, averaging nearly 17 points per game and capping it off with a tournament-high 27-point performance in a four-point win over one of the bracket’s top teams.

He carried that same level of play into the Ohio Basketball Coaster Classic, where he averaged 19 points per game and powered his squad to the Silver Championship. His ability to score in different ways was on full display, scoring 24 points in one matchup while following it with a strong 23-point game in another. Earlier in the year, he impressed at another tournament with consistent double-figure scoring, averaging just over 15 points per game and recording a high of 21 in a standout win. His consistent production and big-game performances earned him All-Tournament recognition at Prep Hoops Havoc in the Heartland, solidifying his reputation as a guard who rises to the occasion against top competition.

Heading into next season, Zander’s goals are to be a better scorer, an even stronger defender, and a leader who helps guide Jimtown’s young, talented roster toward a state championship run. He thrives in the heat of competition, playing with intensity, composure, and a willingness to make winning plays. Whether it’s scoring in bunches, shutting down an opposing star, or rallying his teammates, he embraces whatever role the moment demands.

Off the court, Zander balances his basketball focus with football, weight training, and time with friends. The best advice he’s received from a coach is, "No matter how the game is going, you can always lead your team to victory."

I assess that Zander’s combination of scoring ability, defensive toughness, and leadership makes him a player who can impact a game in countless ways. His willingness to take on any role and execute it with energy and precision gives him the kind of value that goes beyond the stat sheet.

As he continues to evolve his shot creation and expand his offensive bag, Zander’s game will only rise to another level. His mentality, work ethic, and versatility make him a reliable producer now and a dangerous all-around threat in the seasons ahead. This rising star is poised for a breakout season ahead. Stay tuned.