Stone Memorial Lady Panthers senior basketball player Ashley Whittenburg has blended scoring ability with a team-first mindset that has helped fuel one of the program’s strongest starts in recent memory.
A guard for Stone Memorial, Whittenburg is known for her ability to score, but she said the most rewarding part of the game comes from creating opportunities for others.
“It’s harder to guard when there’s multiple people that score instead of just one when you can put all your attention on them,” Whittenburg said. “So it’s better if each player can score [and] contribute.”
That philosophy has translated directly to success on the court. The Lady Panthers have opened the season 14-2, showcasing their balanced offense, which has averaged over 65 points per game so far. Whittenburg, a consistent double-figure threat and one of Stone Memorial’s top offensive options, has often led the team in scoring while still emphasizing ball movement and teamwork.
“You can’t just leave one person open cause they can’t score,” Whittenburg said. “It’s easier to play when everyone is working together.”
Beyond her on-court production, Whittenburg’s role carries even more weight this season as the only senior on the roster. Her leadership has helped guide a younger lineup through a demanding schedule, setting the tone with experience, composure and accountability.
“It’s really just been a blessing to have Lady Panthers across the chest,” Whittenburg said. “All the people that have come before us have laid it out and it’s really been a blessing and laid it out.”
As Stone Memorial continues its push through the season, Whittenburg’s blend of scoring, playmaking and leadership remains central to head coach Mike Buck and the Lady Panthers’ identity.