The Butte Central Maroons enter the 2025–26 Class A campaign with something to prove — and a group that finally feels seasoned, balanced, and built the right way from top to bottom. With eight legitimate rotation players and a core that has matured another year, the Maroons are embracing a return to their roots: disciplined offense, tough-nosed defense, and that signature BC chemistry that has carried this program for generations.
Head coach Brody Kelly summed up exactly where this group stands as the new season approaches.
“Our starters are Josh, GG, Ryan, Jaxon, and Cade. Key bench guys are Burkley, Noah, and Henly. We have good skill and chemistry 1–8. We’re getting back to our roots both offensively and defensively. Everyone has matured a year, and we need to prove that we are tougher than last year. Guys have worked really hard in the offseason and are looking forward to the challenge.”
THE VARSITY CORE
Starters
- Ryan Peoples (Sr., #1, G — 6’2”)
Returning two-time All-Conference guard and one of Class A’s most complete backcourt leaders. - Joshua Sutton (Jr., #11, G — 5’11”)
A returning two-time All-Conference selection, bringing pace, toughness, and floor command. - GG Fantini (Jr., #13, G/F — 5’11”)
Entering his third varsity season. Energy, athleticism, and playmaking rolled into one. - Jaxon Hiatt (So., #23, G/F — 6’0”)
A breakout candidate after making a major impact as a freshman. - Cade Kelly (Jr., #4, F — 6’3”)
A physical returning varsity forward providing interior scoring and toughness.
KEY BENCH IMPACT
- Burkley Lakkala (Jr., #22, F — 6’2”)
Versatile and physical. One of the most improved players in the gym. - Noah Sutton (Fr., #0, G — 5’10”)
Young but wired to compete. Adds depth and ball-handling. - Henly Mansanti (Fr., #10, G — 5’10”)
Confident guard who saw varsity action last season and continues to grow.
FULL VARSITY GROUP
Gunnar O’Brien (Jr., #35, F — 6’0”)
A developing forward who adds size and rebounding support to the rotation.
This complete group gives Coach Kelly flexibility, depth, and the ability to match styles with any Class A opponent.
The message from Coach Kelly is clear: this group is older, tougher, and ready to take a leap. With returning All-Conference stars, strong depth pieces, and a core committed to defending and executing the “BC way,” the Maroons are poised to make noise this winter.
