Fresh off a memorable 2024 campaign that ended in a Class 2A semi-state appearance, the Knightstown Panthers are back — and looking even stronger.

Now competing in Class A, the Panthers have jumped out to a 7–1 start and entered the week ranked No. 1 in the state. Behind second-year head coach Chris Ulrey, the team is building something special, combining last year’s postseason experience with a culture rooted in accountability and preparation.

“We return a lot of our talent from our semi-state run. Am I surprised? Not at all,” Ulrey told Indiana Preps. “Our guys have earned and worked hard for all of this to this point. They go out there and compete.”

While last year’s playoff run was impressive, Ulrey said what’s happening now is the result of offseason buy-in from top to bottom.

“Lots of work and preparation was put in this offseason,” Ulrey said. “Our guys really locked in and invested themselves like never before. As a new coach with a new staff, it’s all about building trust, connection, and getting guys to buy into our structure and culture. They’ve done that since day one.”

Knightstown isn’t just winning games — they’re knocking off bigger-class programs and doing it with a deep, balanced roster. Ulrey, who brought a college-level coaching mindset to the program, said it’s about more than Xs and Os.

“We coach them hard, put confidence in them, challenge them, and help them grow through mistakes. I don’t coach these guys any different than I did at the college level,” he said. “The biggest piece is making sure players know we’re here for them, we believe in them, and we’re invested in them as people first.”

That belief has translated to a never-say-die attitude on the field.

“Whether a game is going our way or not, they don’t quit,” Ulrey added. “They fight through adversity and keep playing. This is one of the best all-around groups I’ve had the privilege of coaching.”

Balanced Lineup Fueled by Experience and Youth

A wave of returning sophomores is already making a big impact. Carter Gossett, Carson Bonham, Andrew Buchanan, and Jadyn Page all saw innings as freshmen last season and are emerging as key contributors in 2025. Page, the returning shortstop, is also giving the Panthers quality innings on the mound.

Juniors Cam Gorman and Braylon Johnson have provided firepower and versatility. Gorman is a dynamic centerfielder with speed and range, while Johnson — the starting third baseman — adds depth as a two-way player with low-to-mid 80s velocity.

Behind the plate, senior Travis Loucks brings leadership and a steady bat. Fellow senior Kelton Weaver patrols right field and provides offensive punch in the middle of the order.

Newcomers are also stepping up. Freshmen Kason Weaver and Mason Butler, sophomore Bryce Marrow, and junior Jackson Daves are all giving Ulrey valuable depth as the Panthers navigate a loaded regular-season slate.

Eyes on Victory Field

For Ulrey and his team, the mission is clear: return to the postseason and take the next step.

“Our team goal is to make another deep run. We want to be playing at Victory Field at the end of June,” Ulrey said. “We have the talent and the depth. We just need to stay healthy and be playing our best baseball when it matters most.”