Jedidiah Ashton: Leaving a Legacy of Leadership and Excellence at Penn State Wilkes-Barre
By: Carrie Miner Yaple | Sportzwire | March 23, 2025 | Photo courtesy Carrie Miner Yaple @v1sion_media
Jedidiah "JD" Ashton, a standout basketball player at Penn State Wilkes-Barre (PSWB), is making waves as not only a key figure on the court but also earning course credits as the first-ever Sportzwire college intern. His time at PSWB has been marked by immense personal and athletic growth, and as he recently finished his final season, JD reflects on the remarkable journey he's experienced, the evolution of the basketball program, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind for future student-athletes.
When JD first stepped onto the court at PSWB, he was eager to develop both as a player and as a person. Looking back, he describes his time at the university as a "cool experience." "I’ve grown and learned a lot about myself as a player and as a man that I'll take with me after I’m done playing here," he says. "I’m appreciative of the opportunities that Coach Hammett has given me." His development has been shaped not only by the challenges and opportunities of college basketball but also by the mentorship and guidance he's received from his coaches and teammates.
As JD’s career progressed, the basketball program at PSWB has undergone noticeable changes for the better. He points out the improvements over the years, emphasizing how the program has evolved and become more competitive. "There’s definitely been changes over the years with the basketball side of things for the better," he shares. "I just hope that for the student-athletes who come after me, they have a better experience, and I hope that I laid the groundwork for better." JD's leadership and performance have no doubt played a role in helping elevate the team, and he expresses a deep sense of pride in contributing to its progress.
JD's list of accomplishments is a testament to his hard work and dedication over the years. His journey has been decorated with numerous accolades, including:
- First Team All Region JUCO (2020)
- First Team USCAA All-American (2022)
- PSUAC 2nd Team All-Conference (2022, 2024)
- All-Tournament Team (2022)
- Led USCAA and PSUAC in FG% (2022)
- USCAA National Champion (2024)
- First Team All-American (2025)
- PSUAC 1st Team All-Conference (2025)
- PSUAC Player of the Year (2025)
- USCAA Statistical Leader in Field Goal Percentage (2025)
- All-Time Leading Scorer in Penn State Wilkes-Barre History
These achievements highlight JD's consistent performance and his ability to rise to the occasion when his team needs him most. His leadership has been evident throughout his career, and his recognition as one of the top players in the region and nationally speaks to his talent and commitment. JD’s impact is further cemented by his career college stats, which include:
- Points: 1585
- Rebounds: 783
- Assists: 130
- Steals: 75
- Blocks: 81
These impressive numbers reflect JD's all-around ability and dedication to his team, making him one of the most complete players in the history of PSWB basketball.
As JD Ashton wraps up his time at Penn State Wilkes-Barre, his legacy is already firmly cemented. Throughout his college career, he has not only excelled on the basketball court but also led by example, becoming a role model for the next generation of student-athletes. His accomplishments—ranging from being named All-American to becoming the all-time leading scorer in PSWB history—speak volumes about his dedication, work ethic, and talent. As JD prepares to graduate, the future is wide open. Whether continuing his basketball career professionally or exploring new opportunities, there’s no doubt that the lessons he's learned and the impact he's made at Penn State will continue to guide him. His journey at PSWB may be coming to a close, but the story of JD Ashton is far from over.
