Southwest Florida sports is poised for an exciting 2025. The momentum gained in 2024 has set the stage for more thrilling developments in the local athletic scene.
To help fans stay in tune, WINK News sports journalists Zach Oliveri and Sylvie Sparks have curated a list of key people and events that will steal the spotlight in the coming year.
2024 was filled with triumphs, including another Kelly Cup victory for the Florida Everblades, FGCU teams making strides in the NCAA tournament, and numerous accomplishments from local athletes.
As they turn their gaze toward 2025, the question arises: Who are the rising stars to watch?
Here’s an exploration of significant storylines set to unfold in 2025.
New Beginnings for FGCU Women’s Basketball
The FGCU women’s basketball team steps into 2025 with fresh energy, helmed by new head coach Chelsea Lyles.
A former player imbued with a passion for the game and a wealth of experience as an assistant coach, Lyles takes the reins after Karl Smesko’s exciting journey to the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream.
With resolve, Lyles aims to preserve the storied success of the program, stating, “We’ll come together to make this season special. Our expectations remain high. The pursuit of excellence continues, as do our ambitions.”
FC Naples Introduces New Soccer Energy
2025 marks an exhilarating chapter as FC Naples, the region’s new USL League One team, takes center stage.
Having unveiled their identity and vibrant colors in 2024, head coach and sporting director Matt Poland is set to energize the community with his dynamic vision.
Poland emphasizes the importance of playing style, “Our game will resonate with the community. Expect a thrilling, aggressive approach, with players who embody hard work and determination.”
MLB Dreams for Local Star
Johnny King, an alum of Naples High, makes headlines as he embarks on his professional baseball career in 2025. His 90+ mph pitching has drawn the attention of scouts, leading him to be drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays.
This February, King will head to spring training in Tampa, stepping closer to what many young athletes only dream of – playing at the Major League level.
Exciting College Decision Season for Football Standouts
In 2025, three prominent high school football athletes from Southwest Florida are gearing up to announce their college commitments.
James Johnson, a formidable defensive lineman from North Fort Myers, receives attention from elite schools including Georgia, Alabama, and LSU.
Meanwhile, wide receiver Jayden Petit from First Baptist and defensive lineman Kendall Guervill from Fort Myers are courting offers from notable programs such as Florida, Miami, and Texas A&M.
Gulf Coast Golfer Chases Major Dreams
Noah Kent, a graduate from Gulf Coast High, is set to fulfill the dreams of a golfer in 2025. He will compete in the prestigious U.S. Open and the Masters, two of the sport’s most revered tournaments.
This Florida signee proved himself last summer, qualifying for both tournaments and ranking among the top 70 in NCAA golf.
In a humorous moment, Kent remarked, “I joke with my dad that we won’t be making pimento cheese sandwiches at home anymore – we’ll just buy them at Augusta!”
These narratives represent just a glimpse of the vibrant stories unfolding in Southwest Florida’s sports world. With passion, talent, and a community rallying behind them, the athletes and teams are ready to make their mark in 2025.
