JASON WHITENS

KALAMAZOO — Western Michigan University sophomore Jason Whitens, who led North Central High School to five state titles, will sit out the basketball season with a knee injury.

“Unfortunately, Jason is going to be out for the year with a knee injury and will redshirt this season,” said Nathan Palcowski, WMU assistant director of communications and engagement.

The 6-foot-5 guard played in 16 games last season, averaging one point and one rebound per game. He totaled 4 assists, 3 blocks and 2 steals.

For the North Central High School boys basketball program, Whitens powered the Jets to three state titles and a 108-1 record over a four-year career. The two-time Class D player of the year averaged 23.2 points, 10.3 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 3.1 steals per game as a senior

Whitens quarterbacked the Jets to consecutive 8-player state football titles as a junior and senior. He broke the state finals rushing record, carrying the ball 17 times for 352 yards and six touchdowns