Noblesville High School (NHS) celebrates one of its own, Reagan Wilson, as she emerges as a nominee for Indiana Miss Basketball.
A senior with an impressive basketball resume, Wilson stands on the brink of making history, potentially becoming the first Miss Basketball from Noblesville High School.
Indiana Miss Basketball is an award given to the top high school girls basketball player in Indiana each year. The award is part of the IndyStar Indiana All-Star program, which has been running since 1939.
Wilson’s journey in basketball has been nothing short of remarkable. With 85 wins, three sectionals and a state championship under her belt, along with two final fours, she has carved out a legacy of excellence on the court in her hometown.
But her passion for the game runs deeper than mere victories. Raised in a family steeped in basketball tradition, with an older brother playing college ball and a father who once graced the courts at Alabama, Wilson’s love for the sport was nurtured from a young age.
“While I was growing up, me and my brother always played basketball in the backyard,” Wilson said. “He was always pushing me to do better and inspired me to play. My brother is definitely where I got my competitiveness from.”
The 18-year-old’s dedication to the sport earned her a coveted spot at Iowa State, where she will continue her basketball journey next year.
“Every coach has always told me to play the sport as long as I can, so I won’t look back and wish I played longer,” she said. “I just hope to play as long as possible.”
Beyond personal achievements, Wilson said she finds purpose in inspiring the next generation of athletes, particularly women in sports.
“For me, women’s sports have always been a big thing,” she said. “The community of Noblesville has taken a big jump in supporting women’s sports and women’s basketball. Seeing that happen has been awesome.”
At NHS, Wilson’s impact extends far beyond the court. As a National Honor Society member and volunteer, she embodies leadership and service. Additionally, she dedicates her time to coaching and mentoring younger girls in basketball, ensuring a legacy of excellence continues to thrive.
The young athlete said her greatest inspiration stems from the NHS basketball program.
“All the girls in the program come to all the games,” Wilson said. “They hold signs and want pictures and autographs after the games. Having to be a role model for them is something really special to me.”
This year at NHS, Wilson and her teams’ advancement to the final four stands as her greatest accomplishment.
“Everyone counted us out in the beginning,” Wilson said. “We were at the bottom of conference and sectional, and we were able to pull out wins and make it to the final four.”
Since starting high school basketball, Wilson said she not only hits the gym before each game, but she also wears one sock inside-out for good luck. “Before each game, I try to get my shots up and get a rhythm going,” she said. “Confidence is a big thing for me. Throughout the day, every time I think about the game I have confidence towards it, knowing it’s going to go well.”
Reflecting on her journey, Wilson attributes much of her success to her support system – her family, coaches, trainers and teammates.
“My parents and family have helped me strive for greatness,” she said. “My coaching staff have instilled so much confidence in me and my trainers have helped get me here. More important is my teammates. I couldn’t do it without them.”
Donna Buckley, Wilson’s basketball coach for four years at NHS, speaks highly of her influence on and off the court.
“Reagan has graduated as one of the most successful kids to come through our school,” Buckley said. “She’s an awesome kid and represents everything you could ever want in an athlete. She’s been a great ambassador for our school.”
As Wilson stands on the brink of potentially claiming the title of Indiana Miss Basketball, her journey shows the importance of dedication, perseverance and the power of community support.
“It’s been very exciting to me and an honor to be nominated,” Wilson said.
