Kennedy Searle Wins Jackie White-Kimber Basketball Award

Junior basketball star recognized for excellence on and off the court

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Kennedy Searle, a junior at Tooele High School, has been named the 38th recipient of the prestigious Jackie White-Kimber Basketball Award. Searle, who has been a standout player since her freshman year, is recognized for her impressive on-court achievements, strong work ethic, and leadership qualities that have made her a key part of the Tooele girls basketball program.

Why it matters

The Jackie White-Kimber Award is one of the highest honors in Utah high school girls basketball, celebrating players who embody the sport's competitive spirit and commitment to their teams. Searle's selection highlights her exceptional talent and character, which have made her a role model for young athletes in the Tooele community.

The details

As a junior, Searle has already surpassed the 1,000-point mark in her high school career, a remarkable milestone that showcases her consistent excellence on the court. She was the team's leading scorer this past season, regularly finishing in double figures and posting multiple 20-point performances. Searle's perimeter shooting, improved defense, and rebounding prowess have made her a well-rounded player who contributes in all facets of the game.

  • Kennedy Searle received the Jackie White-Kimber Award on February 25, 2026.
  • Searle has been a standout player for the Tooele High School girls basketball team since her freshman year.

The players

Kennedy Searle

A junior at Tooele High School who has been a standout player for the girls basketball team since her freshman year, earning All-State Honorable Mention and All-State Second Team honors in her first two seasons.

Julie Bonner

The head coach of the Tooele High School girls basketball team, who praised Searle's leadership, work ethic, and overall impact on the program.

Jackie White-Kimber

A former Tooele High School girls basketball player who passed away in 1988 after a battle with cancer. The award named in her honor is one of the highest accolades in Utah high school girls basketball.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Kennedy Searle has established herself as one of the premier players in the Tooele girls basketball, and her impact in the program makes her a natural choice for the Jackie White-Kimber Award.”

— Julie Bonner, Tooele High School Girls Basketball Coach (tooeleonline.com)

“What stands out most about Kennedy is that her impact goes beyond the stat sheet. While her scoring milestones and on-court accomplishments are impressive, it's her consistency, competitiveness, and commitment to her team that truly define her.”

— Julie Bonner, Tooele High School Girls Basketball Coach (tooeleonline.com)

“What I like about basketball is it has taught me hard work and grit. It's also given me a second family and I'm so grateful for my teammates and coaches.”

— Kennedy Searle (tooeleonline.com)

What’s next

Next year, Tooele High School will have some good talent coming up, with only three seniors graduating and many younger players poised to step up and contribute to the team's success.

The takeaway

Kennedy Searle's selection for the prestigious Jackie White-Kimber Award highlights her exceptional talent, leadership, and commitment to the Tooele High School girls basketball program. Her accomplishments on and off the court serve as an inspiration for young athletes in the community, demonstrating that hard work, teamwork, and a passion for the game can lead to great success.