Jolesa Birkhead is finishing her high school career at Winthrop, where she has been a scoring machine for the team. The combo guard (CG) has averaged 16.4 PPG over her career and an impressive 20.1 PPG this season. Birkhead does most of her scoring from shooting the ball, having made over 450 three-pointers in her career, including 179 this season alone.

Birkhead also utilizes her speed, agility, and ball-handling skills to blow by defenders and get to the rim. She is a creative scorer who forces defenses to adjust, as she can not only shoot the three but also stop on a dime and transition seamlessly into her pull-up jumper. Her ability to finish with either her left or right hand allows her to take what the defense gives her and remain consistent at the rim.

(Cover Photo) JoLesa Birkhead JoLesa Birkhead 5'8" | CG Winthrop College Prep Academy | 2025 State FL is the ultimate competitor and a great leader on the floor, evident by how hard she plays. Her work ethic is second to none. Jolesa also has the skill to match that work ethic, with excellent ball-handling that allows her to get to her spots on the court. She couples that with a smooth jump shot, making her a scoring threat whether shooting off the dribble, finishing at the rim, or knocking down the three off the catch. If defenders close out on her three-point shot, she has a sharp pump fake into a step-back three.

What really sets Jolesa apart is her basketball IQ and understanding of the game. She knows where everyone needs to be on the floor and communicates effectively, making her an outstanding leader. Last season, Birkhead averaged 24.1 PPG, with a season-high 42-point game. She had a great travel season with SWFL Impact, further elevating her skill set.

I expect her to have another successful high school season, as she is ready for the collegiate level, which is evident by the several offers she currently holds.