“I will forever be grateful for the magical season I was able to share with the 2025–26 Regional Champion Circleville Lady Tiger Basketball Team” Blakeman told Litter Media via text. “Eleven young women, two coaches, and one simple standard — win the next game. This group bought into that mindset, bought into each other, and trusted the process every step of the way. Their defense became one of the toughest you’ll find anywhere. Offensively, they grew every time they stepped on the floor. Different skills, different personalities, all coming together to create the perfect storm. I’m thankful for every one of those players and for Coach (Peyton) Perini, who hung in there and put up with me through the grind. I was also blessed to experience it all alongside our daughter, Maddie Blakeman. Coaching her during this run made the journey even more meaningful. League champs, district champs, regional champs — a senior year full of memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. To everyone who supported us, encouraged us, and traveled with us down the stretch, thank you. This season was special because of the people who believed in these girls and this program. What a ride — one I’ll never forget.”