The Poppenga gymnasium was electric Friday night as twenty-four Delavan High School alumni laced up for the annual "Meet The Panthers" alumni basketball game, a beloved tradition that kicks off the winter sports season and celebrates Panther pride across generations.

This year’s matchup split the alumni into two squads: the “Young” team, featuring graduates from 2018 to 2024, and the “Old” team, composed of alumni from 2000 to 2017. The result? A thrilling, back-and-forth contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer.

A Game to Remember

The young team—led by standout players like Sam DeJesus, Cooper Hansen, Faith Harper, Maddie Harper, Charlie Hodges, Landon Horning, Prescott Jeckel, Tollin Johnson, Kelton Nafziger , Brett Sundell, Brady Vannaken, and Caleb Waggoner—showed speed, precision, and youthful energy. Their opponents, including seasoned athletes like Jeff Bolen, Mitchell Carr, Jason Fisher, Jordan Harper, Dan Mammen, Trey Mowder, Cody Nelson, Teagan Teal, Chip Wagner, Kelly Wass, Aaron Wheeler, and Jordan Zimmer, countered with grit, experience, and sharp shooting.

In a nail-biter finish, the young team edged out the veterans 41–39, sealing the win with clutch plays and relentless defense.

Players of the Game

Two alumni earned special recognition for their performances:

• Maddie Harper (Class of 2019) was named Player of the Game for the young team, dazzling the crowd with her poise and accuracy from beyond the arc.
• Jordan Zimmer (Class of 2008) earned the honor for the old team, sinking multiple three-pointers and anchoring his squad with leadership and intensity.

Both players exemplified the spirit of Panther basketball—competitive, passionate, and community-driven.

More Than Just a Game

“Meet The Panthers” night isn’t just about basketball—it’s about connection. Families, students, and longtime supporters filled the bleachers, cheering for familiar faces and celebrating the legacy of Delavan athletics. The event also served as a warm welcome to this year’s Panther teams, who were introduced during halftime to roaring applause.

As the final whistle blew and handshakes were exchanged, one thing was clear: whether fresh out of high school or years removed, once a Panther, always a Panther.