The Making of a Dynasty
Zachary High School’s boys basketball team has cemented its place among the state’s elite after capturing the 2025‑26 Star of Stars Boys Team of the Year title, securing its second straight championship and the eighth in school history.
Coach Jonathan McClinton’s leadership has been defined by a no‑excuses philosophy, with mantras like “don’t flinch” and “built tough” shaping daily practice. The coach says the program’s emphasis on discipline and attention to detail is what separates the Broncos from the competition.
The championship game against Ruston was a nail‑biter, ending 63‑60 in Zachary’s favor. While Ahmad Ruston led the opposing team with a stellar performance, the Broncos’ depth proved decisive, with Ian Edmond delivering a team‑high 20 points and Ethan Kimmie and Mason Newman adding 12 and 11 points respectively.
Zachary closed out the season on a 12‑game winning streak, a testament to the squad’s consistency and ability to thrive under pressure. Their deep rotation allowed the team to maintain intensity throughout the tournament, a factor McClinton credits for their late‑season surge.
Beyond the trophies, the program’s culture remains the foundation of its success. The mantra of being “built tough” reverberates through the locker room and into the community, fostering a mindset that values resilience as much as raw talent.