Whitehall girls basketball coach James Middleton is looking to put some zip into the Zephyrs this season with an aggressive defense and fast-paced play.

“We want to force turnovers and play fast. We are tall and athletic. We want to get out and run,” said the first-year head coach.

Key returners for the Zephyrs include Morgan ‘MJ’ Dunbar, who led the team in scoring last year, and Jade Alvarez, who led in rebounds.

“Morgan has worked really hard this offseason and has really improved and accepted a leadership role,” said Coach Middleton. “Jade is really coming into her own. She’s worked hard on her skill set, and we are expecting a big year from her.”

Freshman Makaela Bordner is expected to play big minutes, and Middleton added that she has the ability to score in bunches.

“We were in the weight room all summer and played in a few tournaments,” Middleton said. “We’ve put in a lot of work during the offseason. The girls worked on their individual skill sets.”

Danika Barndt is the head varsity assistant and played and graduated from Centenary College.

Luburdia Gordon is the varsity second assistant and played and graduated from Seton Hall University, and Middleton’s third assistant is Brielle Boyce who played at East Stroudsburg University.

Justin Fuentes is the junior varsity head coach, and Rob Hunter will coach the freshman team.

“My assistants are all good friends of mine,” said Middleton. “Everyone has played a lot of basketball and a majority of them played at the collegiate level. I think we have a great staff in place that fits our team perfectly. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish as a team.”

While Whitehall plans to challenge other teams with its aggressive defense, Middleton thinks the Zephyrs will struggle offensively to start.

“Learning a new offense and having some of the younger girls playing big minutes will be a challenge to start,” he said.

With the girls basketball season set to begin in early December, Coach Middleton and the Zephyrs have much to anticipate.

“I am looking forward to having fun. I want this season to be enjoyable for our seniors,” said Middleton. “I am looking forward to bringing some excitement to our program and ultimately competing with the best of the best.”