The Westminster Wildcats began the 2025–26 boys basketball season with an impressive 74–55 victory on the road at Lutheran St. Charles, setting an early tone for a team looking to build on last year's success. Coming off a historic 2024–25 campaign—one that ended with a 25–7 record, a 3rd Place finish at the Class 5 State Tournament, and All-Metro Second Team honors for then-sophomore Will Powers—the Wildcats entered the new season with high expectations despite graduating three seniors: JD Robertson, Evan Montandon, and Charlie Baker.
Those expectations were met immediately in the opener. Westminster came out firing, dominating the first quarter 19–7 behind strong defensive pressure and efficient scoring. The offense continued to flow in the second quarter, and even as the Cougars found their rhythm, the Wildcats carried a 42–29 lead into halftime. Westminster maintained control throughout the second half, outscoring Lutheran St. Charles in both remaining quarters to secure the 19-point win.
Junior Will Powers delivered a standout performance, opening the season with 32 points on 5-of-8 shooting from beyond the arc while adding 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Senior Tobi Akinyede provided stability in the paint with 9 rebounds and matched Powers with 5 assists, helping drive a balanced and efficient team effort.
With the season-opening win in hand, the Wildcats now shift their focus to the Troy Tournament on December 1, 3, and 5. Westminster will face host Troy in the first round on Monday, December 1 at 5:30 p.m. After a strong start on the road, the Wildcats look ready to carry their momentum into a highly anticipated stretch of early-season competition.
