Springdale Har-Ber's Jabarih Washington Named NWADG Player of the Year

Senior's increased role led to standout season for Wildcats

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:50pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the motion and energy of a high school basketball player, with their jersey number partially visible but their face obscured, rendered in the bold colors of the Springdale Har-Ber Wildcats.A cubist interpretation of Springdale Har-Ber's standout senior guard Jabarih Washington, whose leadership and skill were recognized as the region's top high school basketball player.Springdale Today

Springdale Har-Ber High School senior Jabarih Washington was named the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette's Boys Basketball Player of the Year after a standout season for the Wildcats. With the team losing several key players to graduation and transfers, Washington stepped up to lead Har-Ber to a successful campaign.

Why it matters

Washington's recognition as the top player in the region highlights his impressive individual performance and the Wildcats' ability to remain competitive despite significant roster turnover. The award showcases the senior's development and leadership in guiding his team through a challenging season.

The details

After Har-Ber lost two Division I players to graduation and two more starters to other teams in the 6A-West Conference, Washington knew his role would increase dramatically for his senior year. The 6-foot-3 guard responded by averaging 18.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.1 steals per game, leading the Wildcats to a 19-9 record and a spot in the 6A state tournament.

  • Jabarih Washington was named the NWADG Boys Basketball Player of the Year on April 12, 2026.

The players

Jabarih Washington

A 6-foot-3 senior guard for the Springdale Har-Ber High School boys basketball team.

Springdale Har-Ber High School

A public high school located in Springdale, Arkansas that competes in the 6A-West Conference.

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What they’re saying

“With losing two Division I players to graduation and two more starters to other teams in the 6A-West Conference, Jabarih Washington knew his role would increase dramatically his senior year on Springdale Har-Ber's boys basketball team.”

— Jabarih Washington, Senior Guard

The takeaway

Jabarih Washington's selection as the NWADG Boys Basketball Player of the Year demonstrates his ability to step up and lead his team to success despite significant roster turnover. His standout individual performance highlights the depth of talent in the region's high school basketball scene.