Giant Sleepers: Is #3 Kalamazoo Central the slept on team?
Giant Sleepers: Is #3 Kalamazoo Central the slept on team?
HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL
1/1/20263 min read
Giant Sleeper: Kalamazoo Central Giants 2025–2026 Season Preview
The Kalamazoo Central Giants are quietly building something special in the 2025–2026 season. While they may not always dominate headlines early, make no mistake—this is a giant sleeper team with a deep roster, a strong senior core, and the type of experience that wins big games in February and March.
Senior-Led and Battle-Tested
What separates Kalamazoo Central from many teams across the state is experience. The Giants are senior led, disciplined, and comfortable playing together. Multiple players have been on varsity for three or four years, and that continuity shows on both ends of the floor.
The Engine: Isaiah Theodile
At the center of it all is Isaiah Theodile, an Oakland University commit and the heartbeat of this program. Theodile is a four-year varsity player, a rare accomplishment that speaks volumes about his consistency and growth. His leadership, physical presence, and understanding of the game set the tone for the Giants. He’s been through every situation imaginable and brings a calm confidence that elevates everyone around him.
A Backcourt with Firepower
Kameron Bean (Senior, SG) – A three-year letterman, Bean is a quick-trigger shooter who stretches the floor with his three-point ability. Defenses can’t afford to lose him, especially in transition or spot-up situations.
Taveon Vaughn (Senior, PG) – The floor general. Vaughn controls tempo, gets teammates involved, and can score at any moment when the game calls for it. His poise at the point guard position is a major strength for Central.
Curtis Whitfield (G) – The defensive specialist. Whitfield’s quick feet and fast reactions make him the Giants’ go-to option for disrupting opposing point guards. His impact may not always show in the box score, but it’s felt every possession. Injuries have limited his availability for much of the season, but when healthy, his defensive impact is undeniable.
Wings That Bring Energy and Toughness
TJ Terrentine (Senior, SF/SG) – A three-year letterman whose role is clear and critical: lead vocally, knock down open threes, and bring intense defense every night. Terrentine does the dirty work and sets the standard for effort.
Jonathan Edwards (SG) – A relentless competitor who plays hard every possession. Edwards is a slasher who can play above the rim, attacking the basket with aggression, while also being capable of knocking down shots when defenses collapse.
The X-Factor: Davier White
Depth takes another leap forward with the addition of Davier White, a key transfer from Kentucky. White has been rated by multiple sites as a top 2027 prospect in his area and already holds multiple Division I offers. His ability to score and shoot adds another dangerous dimension to the Giants’ rotation and gives them matchup flexibility that few teams can match.
Proving Ground Ahead
While Kalamazoo Central’s overall schedule may not be the toughest on paper, a crucial stretch in January will reveal exactly who they are:
1/3/26 – Out-of-conference matchup vs Detroit King at Muskegon High School
1/7/26 – Road test vs Cass Tech at Cass Tech
1/16/26 – Conference rivalry game vs Kalamazoo Loy Norrix
1/17/26 – Major showdown vs #4 Brother Rice at Brother Rice
That four-game span will be a measuring stick—and an opportunity—for the Giants to announce themselves on the state stage.
Final Word
Don’t let the quiet buzz fool you. Kalamazoo Central is deep, experienced, and hungry. With senior leadership, a Division I commit leading the way, and elite-level talent added to the mix, the Giants are exactly what their name suggests—a giant sleeper ready to wake up Michigan high school basketball in 2025–2026.
