2025 Prep Profile: Winchendon
As the 2025–26 season approaches, Winchendon enters the year with high expectations and a roster brimming with talent. Known for its rigorous player development, national-level schedule, and ability to prepare athletes for the next level, the program once again looks poised to make a statement in New England prep basketball.
With a mix of returning contributors, impact newcomers, and a coaching staff focused on toughness, discipline, and unselfish play, they aim to combine depth, versatility, and defensive intensity to compete at the highest level. This preview will break down the key players, storylines, and matchups that could define Winchendon’s season.
The Returners
Jayse Tre Johnson is an electric 5’9 point guard known for his shifty, dynamic playmaking. He excels at distributing the ball and creating opportunities for his teammates, making those around him better. In addition to his passing, Johnson is a capable scorer who can create his own shot and convert at an impressive rate, adding a significant offensive dimension to his game.
Aidan Knight is a 6’2” guard recognized for his tenacious, lockdown defense, arguably among the best in New England. His energy and intensity on the defensive end consistently provide a spark that can shift momentum and inspire his teammates. Beyond his defensive impact, he is also a versatile offensive threat, capable of scoring from virtually anywhere on the floor. Whether attacking off the dribble, hitting pull-up jumpers, or knocking down shots from deep, his two-way ability makes him a key contributor and a player who can change the game on both ends.
The Newcomers
Daniel Bussey, the reigning NEPSAC Class C Player of the Year, looks to carry his success over to Winchendon this season. His game thrives in open space, where his dynamic ball-handling and elite shot creation keep defenders guessing at every turn. Bussey is a high-level shooter who knocks down threes at an exceptional rate, yet he’s equally dangerous attacking the rim, capable of meeting defenders in the air and finishing through contact. His combination of skill, confidence, and versatility makes him one of the most exciting offensive talents in the region.
Quinn Gibson is a 6’6” wing known for his strong defensive presence. He possesses quick hands that consistently disrupt passing lanes, and he’s able to switch onto ball handlers without compromising the team’s defensive integrity. Gibson rebounds well on both ends and has the ability to initiate transition offense, pushing the ball up the floor to create easy scoring opportunities for his teammates. His blend of size, mobility, and defensive instincts makes him an invaluable two-way contributor for Winchendon.
Bryston Joyce is coming off an impressive year in which he earned All–Power 5 AA First Team and Empire 8 Prep League Third Team honors, driven largely by his lights-out shooting and strong ball-handling abilities. His handle allows him to consistently beat defenders off the dribble and get to the rim, while his shooting threat forces defenses to stay honest. Joyce excels in transition, pushing the ball up the floor to get the offense flowing early and generating quick scoring opportunities. Defensively, he plays with an aggressive edge, using his high basketball IQ to anticipate opponents’ moves before they happen. His combination of skill, pace, and defensive instincts makes him a high-impact guard on both ends of the floor.
Brady Sehlhorst, the most recent Elon commit, is a reliable deep-range shooter who stretches the floor and forces defenses to extend well beyond the arc. In addition to his perimeter threat, he thrives attacking downhill, using his strength and aggressiveness to finish through contact at the rim. His ability to score at all three levels makes him a versatile offensive weapon and a key piece for Winchendon this season.
Treddy Faison is a 5’11” point guard known for his strong command of the ball and ability to orchestrate the offense at a high level. He thrives as a floor general, running the team with poise, pace, and precision. His impact extends well beyond the offensive end—his defensive reputation speaks for itself, as his nickname “Off Night” hints at the difficulty opponents face trying to score against him.
Cameron Blankenberg is a long 6’7” wing who has been named the All-Greater Rochester Player of the Year twice, a testament to his consistency and impact. A high-volume scorer who also rebounds at a strong rate, he brings a well-rounded offensive presence and actively looks to involve his teammates. Blankenberg is a proven winner, and he arrives at Winchendon with the expectation of continuing that success on a bigger stage.
Tavin Penix is a 6’5” smooth operator who can light it up from beyond the arc and elevate with just about anyone in the gym. With a growing list of Division I offers already in hand, he’s poised for even more attention as the season progresses. His blend of shooting touch and athleticism makes him one of Winchendon’s most intriguing and dynamic prospects.
Defining Characteristics
Winchendon enters the 2025–26 season with a roster defined by versatility, two-way toughness, and an up-tempo identity that fits perfectly with the program’s competitive culture. Across the lineup, this group features dynamic ball handlers, high-level shooters, and wings with the length and athleticism to guard multiple positions. Defensively, Winchendon projects to be one of the most disruptive teams in the region, with guards who pressure the ball, wings who switch seamlessly, and big, physical athletes who turn turnovers into transition opportunities. Offensively, they blend creative playmaking with explosive scoring, boasting several players capable of generating their own shot and stretching the floor.
The Bottom Line
With a deep roster, a blend of seasoned returners and high-impact newcomers, and a clear identity built on defensive intensity and offensive versatility, Winchendon is poised for a standout 2025–26 campaign. This group has the talent, balance, and competitive firepower to contend with anyone on their schedule, while also showcasing individual players with the potential to elevate their profiles on a national stage.
Aidan Knight