INDIANAPOLIS - As the Jaguars embark on their final regular-season matchup against the Mastodons of Purdue Fort Wayne, they seek to add another conference win to their resume. It is not only a game of competition, but one of meaning, as the seniors will step into the Jungle for a final time in regular-season play. As the season begins to close, it is important to recognize two seniors, Ajay Holubar and Finley Woodward, who have laid the foundation for the future of this Jaguars team, not only in skill but in elite character.
 
Ajay Holubar, who calls home just 18 miles away in Bargersville, Indiana, began his collegiate career at the University of Indianapolis and spent two years developing as a player into their game plan. In 2024, Holubar made his way to The Jungle, making an unforgettable impact in more ways than just basketball. He created a standard of perseverance that everyone on the team can emulate.
 
Amidst the coaching change of last year, Holubar was the only player to remain a Jaguar. When his teammates chose to walk away, Holubar stayed, embracing the new era of the Jaguars men's basketball under Coach Ben Howlett.
 
"I enjoyed being able to learn about the new system. It was cool to watch all of my teammates figure it out as well and to see all of us start to click and become more of a unit." Holubar continued. "And fully buy into what coach was looking for."
 
Holubar has indeed bought into Coach Howlett's vision and coaching style, bringing hard work, perseverance, and grit to every drill, practice, and game. "He's a guy if you call on him, you know what you are going to get," Coach Howlett said. "You know you're going to get top effort from him."
 
Coach Howlett not only brought experience and knowledge with him from West Liberty, but also a standout forward from Bristol, England, Finley Woodward. Coach Howlett's vision for the program started with Woodward, whom he knew would be a formidable presence on the hardwood.
 
"He came in as a freshman and had a minor role, and then each year he has developed into one of our go-to players." Coach Howlett continued. "Just to see him get recognized as a really good player by other people is extremely rewarding for me."
 
Woodward's commitment and adaptability under the leadership of Coach Howlett have allowed him to emerge as a difference maker, leading the team in assists, and Woodward remains grateful for the chance to compete.
 
"I'm forever grateful, and it couldn't have happened without coach Howlett believing in me and taking a chance on me," Woodward said. "He's allowed me to grow into a much better basketball player and has set me up for success in my future."
 
Woodward and Holubar have made a lasting mark within the Jaguars' huddle, but their influence continues beyond the court, bleeding into the classroom. Both players see the importance of maintaining a balance between academics and athletics. They attack every class and homework assignment with intention, knowing it will lead to a successful future on or off the court.
 
Woodward is majoring in criminal justice, and Holubar is seeking his master's in public health administration. Woodward and Holubar demonstrate exactly what it means to be a student-athlete, and their commitment has not gone unnoticed.
 
Woodward said,  "At some point, the ball has to stop bouncing, so I made sure to stay on top of academics and put myself in a good position for my future." And for Ajay, it revolves around finishing the task at hand. "That's who I am and will always be. Somebody that you know is going to do the right thing and work the hardest in whatever I am tasked to do." Holubar said.
 
Coach Howlett knows that both players have a bright future ahead, and it is one he is excited to watch unfold. "Ajay is going to be a success story in life. We call him the CEO for a reason." Coach Howlett continued. "Fin is still going to be playing. He has a future playing basketball. I think he is going to be a really good basketball coach someday, too."
 
As the doors close on their time as Jaguars, one thing is for sure: Ajay Holubar and Finley Woodward have created an example of excellence that every player can look to, and they have cemented their place in the legacy of Jaguars basketball.