Celebrating Local Talents: Highlights from the Vermont Basketball Coaches’ Association and Boys Hockey All-League Teams
VBCA Awards: Honoring Excellence in Basketball
The Vermont Basketball Coaches’ Association (VBCA) recently announced the prestigious awards for 2026, spotlighting the remarkable achievements of local high school athletes. Among the distinguished honorees is Brattleboro’s Myah Waite, one of only seven recipients of the VBCA scholarships this year. This recognition not only highlights Waite’s dedication and hard work but also underscores the growing talent in Vermont’s basketball scene.
Record-Breaking Performances
In another impressive accomplishment, Waite’s teammate Reese Croutworst made headlines by scoring her 1,000th point during a nail-biting 39-35 victory against Burr & Burton on January 14. Croutworst finished her illustrious high school career with a remarkable total of 1,248 points, which places her second in Brattleboro’s girls’ basketball history, just behind Kari Greenbaum’s record of 1,420 points. Her stellar performance earned her a place as a senior all-star in the Division 1-2 girls south category, alongside her teammate Parker Thibault.
Twin Valley’s Scoring Sensations
The Twin Valley boys’ basketball team also made waves this season, with Brayden and Landon Brown showcasing their scoring prowess. Brayden achieved the impressive feat of scoring 40 points in a single game three times, with notable performances against Grace Christian (43 points on January 13), Rivendell (43 points on February 12), and West Rutland (40 points on February 19). Landon matched this achievement with a 40-point game against Springfield on January 20. Both brothers were recognized as outstanding underclassmen in the Division 4 boys category, highlighting their potential for future success.
Emerging Stars Recognized
In addition to the Browns’ accolades, Twin Valley’s Kate Oyer was also named among the outstanding underclassmen in the Division 4 girls category. The Bellows Falls team saw its own share of recognition, with Abby Nystrom and Avery Maxfield included in the Division 3 girls list. Among the senior all-stars, Cadance James and Veronica Moore stood out in the Division 3-4 girls south category, while Coby Levesque received accolades in the Division 3-4 boys south category. These recognitions reflect the depth of talent in the local basketball community.
VBCA Senior All-Star Games
Excitement is building for the upcoming VBCA Senior All-Star Games, scheduled for Saturday at Windsor High School. With the first game tipping off at 11 a.m., basketball fans will have the chance to witness some of the best talent in the region come together for a memorable day of competition. It promises to be an exciting showcase of skills and sportsmanship.
Boys Hockey All-League Highlights
Alongside the basketball accolades, local hockey talent was also recognized, particularly in Brattleboro. Gabe Alexander earned an honorable mention in the Division 2 all-league as a defenseman, showcasing his defensive skills and dedication on the ice. His contributions to the team were substantial, and his selection to participate in the upcoming 40th Rotary All-Star Hockey Classic is a testament to his talent.
All-Star Event Details
The Rotary All-Star Hockey Classic is set for Saturday, featuring an exciting match-up that begins with the women’s game at 4 p.m., followed by the men’s game at 6 p.m. This event not only provides a platform for showcasing local talent but also fosters community support for the athletes and the sport as a whole.
The developments in both basketball and hockey reflect the vibrant spirit of local high school sports. The recognition of these student-athletes serves to highlight their hard work, dedication, and talent, paving the way for future stars in Vermont’s sports landscape.