Marathon won the title of Queens of the Court in Monroe County this season, earning a 10-8 record and an FHSAA Rural District 8 title in their first season competing in the division. The underrated Fins picked off the No. 2 seed in the semifinals, then overcame the top-seeded team to bring home the hardware. In local action, Marathon beat Key West twice and split wins with Coral Shores to earn their Keys Champs status.
The Hurricanes split wins against the Dolphins and Conchs. Coral Shores finished 5-6 in 2024-25, and though they’ll lose four seniors with game savvy and leadership to graduation, the ’Canes will return their top offensive threat in Melanie Estevez alongside their top defensive stat holder in London Atkins. The pair of freshmen gained experience and grew in talent as the season wore on.
Key West went 1-20, but began to click as a unit and show promise as the season progressed. The young team graduates a single senior, and the chemistry they worked to create will benefit them in the coming years.
Player of the Year
Elena Eubank
Senior, Marathon
Marathon basketball rivals likely feel as if senior Elena Eubank has been making shots and outhustling them for what seems like forever. That’s because the talented hoopster has graced the Fins’ roster and received significant playing time since she was still in middle school. The multi-sport athlete is a natural leader whose style of both play and guidance can be described as intense or easygoing, depending on the situation she faces. Eubank led the Fins in both scoring and assists, and her unselfish play combined with superior ball handling made her deadly to opposing teams’ defenses.
Marti’yana Kilbourne
Senior, Marathon
A defensive force, Marathon’s Marti’yana Kilbourne never met a rebound she didn’t like. Kilbourne led the Fins in rebounds and steals, taking control of the ball and redirecting it to where her team needed it all season long. The senior was second in scoring and assists, making her a dynamic asset to the Dolphins’ lineup.
Grace Leffler
Senior, Coral Shores
Described by her coach as a “clutch player,” Leffler was dependable to shine when her team needed it most. The senior leader was second for the ’Canes in scoring and in rebounds, and her leadership was as vital to Coral Shores’ success as her athleticism.
London Atkins
Freshman, Coral Shores
Atkins may just be a freshman, but she plays with the style and command of an upperclassmen. She led the Hurricanes in rebounds, pulling down 20 in the team’s win against Marathon alone. Hardworking and willing to be physical no matter what she faces, Atkins’ defensive play will continue to benefit the Hurricanes in the seasons to come.
Damarla Thompson
Sophomore, Key West
In just her first year of varsity play, Conchs sophomore Damarla Thompson earned a spot in the starting five via hustle and athleticism. Thompson is willing to dive for loose balls and lock down on defense. She understands ball control, not only pulling down plenty of rebounds but making intelligent passes afterward. Her game knowledge will only continue to grow with her experience the next two seasons.
Monica Bueno
Senior, Key West
Conchs guard Monica Bueno’s contributions to Key West’s basketball team the past three seasons have been monumental. Her leadership and communication were vital in bringing a very young team around this season and she leads by example, giving her all in every situation.
Colleen Barter
Junior, Key West
A three-year player for the Conchs, junior Colleen Barter is all over Key West’s top three stat categories, proving to be a well-rounded player and asset to the team. Barter is praised for her hustle for loose balls, her willingness to be physical and grab rebounds and for her shot blocking – and offensively, she has no problem finding the basket. Barter’s experience and work ethic set the tone for an exciting senior campaign.
Daysi Williams
Junior, Marathon
A natural athlete, Marathon’s Daysi Williams was able to outmaneuver and outsprint opponents all season long. Williams led the Fins in blocks and was second in rebounding. She plays with an unmatched intensity and often stepped up and made big plays when the game was on the line, particularly in the Fins’ district championship showdown.
Melanie Estevez
Freshman, Coral Shores
Freshman Melanie Estevez was the top-scoring player for the Hurricanes this season, and her performance just got better as the season progressed. The sharpshooter can find the net from just about anywhere inside half-court, making it impossible for opposing teams to leave her unguarded. Despite what often amounted to double coverage, Estevez found ways to evade defenses and continue to pile on the points.
