A season after breezing through Region 4 with a perfect 12-0 mark, the West Jordan boys basketball team will look a lot different this year. But head coach Christian Wouden is optimistic about the Jaguars’ chances. 

West Jordan lost a lot of firepower from last season’s Region 4-winning squad. Still, Wouden thinks the Jaguars should be a factor in the region race again and could do better than some people think. He has some well-defined, specific objectives. 

“This team has an extremely bright outlook for the season,” he said. “I think we will surprise some teams. Our goals are simple: play together, grow together and leave everything on the court. We expect to be the best versions of ourselves and support each other like a family and find joy in the journey.”

Overall, West Jordan was 14-11 last season and fell in the second round of the Class 5A state tournament at Orem. To build off the region championship and improve its overall record, West Jordan needs to play better as a team, Wouden said. The Jaguars have some new faces in the varsity lineup, so Wouden wants the players to develop good cohesion and team unity. 

“We need to come together as a team—every player contributing, cheering, lifting each other up, being a star in their role,” he said. “Success is measured in teamwork, dedication and spirit, not just wins and losses. Our team motto for the year is #TOGETHER. For our team to be successful this year, it will take the entire team working together. That is what’s going to need to happen.”

West Jordan opened the 2024–25 season Nov. 19 at Cedar Valley. The home opener was Nov. 20 against Bingham. The Jaguars also had a big rivalry game at home Nov. 21 against Copper Hills. West Jordan also has a busy pre-Christmas schedule in December with seven contests. The first Region 4 game will be at Cyprus on Jan. 3. 

Heading into the season, Wouden was emphasizing better passing and talking on the court. 

“I am hoping to see more passes than a hot potato game—ball movement, sharing the ball, getting the ball hot, getting everyone involved,” he said. “We need to pass up a good shot for a better shot for a teammate. We’re aiming for better communication and cohesion on and off the court.”

What West Jordan might lack in experience this season, Wouden believes it will make up for in other areas. He’s excited to see the team play and bring its energy to every game. He said the players excel in effort and attitude. Even when challenges arise, the Jaguars step up and fight through the adversity. 

“Our strengths lie in our heart and hustle,” he said. “This team never gives up; they’re learning to play for each other. They play hard every single time they step on the court. We are excited to share our brand-new look of our gym and bring energy, excitement and enthusiasm to the gym.”

A player Wouden talks a lot about is senior point guard Dodger Denning. He didn’t see a lot of varsity time a year ago, but he should have a much bigger role this season. Five Jaguars averaged more than six points a game last season. All six varsity players graduated this past school year. 

Unselfishness, trust and togetherness will help the Jaguars overcome its youthfulness and other weaknesses, Wouden said. 

“Our biggest challenge is inexperience,” he said. “To overcome it, players need to keep practicing and trust in each other’s abilities. It’s about building confidence as a team, leaning into our collective strengths and learning to play as a unit. One player might make a basket, but it’s the team that scores the points.”

West Jordan competes against fellow west-side schools Hunter, Granger, Cyprus, Kearns and Taylorsville, along with Juan Diego, in Region 4. The Jaguars will play each league team twice. 

Wouden is grateful for the chance to coach at West Jordan. He enters his fourth season at the helm of the team with a record of 35-37. He enjoys developing the players and helping them improve on the court. However, he said it’s also gratifying to see them progress off the court and take the lessons they learn from the game and apply them to life. Wouden also encouraged the community to get out and watch the team this winter. 

“What I enjoy most about coaching is the opportunity to build positive relationships and making a difference in their lives, helping them to be the best they can be, both on and off the court,” he said. “I enjoy being able to watch each player discover their potential and the strength they find in teamwork. Their energy and enthusiasm are infectious and seeing them grow together is the best reward. I can’t wait for the season to start and hope to see a lot of people at the Jaguar gym this winter.”

The Jaguars made a big turnaround last season after going 1-9 in Region 3 of Class 6A the year before. This season, West Jordan will seek its best record since 2021–22 when it finished with a 15-9 mark competing in Region 3. The Jaguars last made it past the second round of the playoffs in 2020 when they reached the quarterfinals in a 17-8 season. West Jordan has two state championships to its name, winning the 5A titles in 2001 and 2009.