Rising Star in the Sauk Valley
Jossy James, a junior guard for the Sterling High girls basketball team, has become a focal point of excitement in the local sports scene. Her combination of quickness, shooting range and court vision has turned her into a standout performer this season.
Record‑breaking performance
James posted averages of 18.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 3.7 steals per game, numbers that placed her on the Illinois Media All‑State second team, the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association second team and the All‑Western Big 6 Conference first team. She also set new school marks for three‑point shooting, hitting eight in a single game, 79 in a season and 183 for her career.
A milestone in scoring
With 1,350 career points, she now ranks third on Sterling’s all‑time list, a testament to her consistency and durability. The team’s record has improved to 50‑16 over the past two seasons, a climb that coincides with her emergence as a leader after the graduation of former Player of the Year Madison Austin.
Commitment and character
Beyond statistics, James is known for her work ethic. Coach Taylor Jackson describes her as a “gym rat,” a player who spends extra time perfecting her shot and ball‑handling. She embraces a “heart over height” philosophy, using energy and confidence to compensate for her 5‑foot‑3 stature. Her dedication has earned her the title of Sauk Valley Media Girls Basketball Player of the Year for the 2025‑26 season.
Looking ahead
James has committed to Valparaiso University, where she will join a program that values both athletic skill and academic growth. She hopes to mentor younger teammates in the same way she has guided her high school peers, encouraging them to find their roles and stay confident on the court.