Ivanna Wilson Manyacka ’27 Named Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year for Second Straight Year

Ivanna Wilson Manyacka, a junior in the Class of 2027 at Bullis, has been named the Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year for both the 2024–25 and 2025–26 seasons, earning the honor in back-to-back years. 

The award highlights Ivanna’s consistent high-level performance throughout the season and her standing among the top high school girls basketball players in Maryland. The Gatorade Player of the Year program annually recognizes elite student-athletes across the country who exemplify excellence in athletics, academics, and character.

Sustained Excellence on a State and National Stage

Earning this recognition in consecutive years places Ivanna among an elite group of student-athletes who have demonstrated sustained excellence over time. Her achievement reflects not only her talent and competitive drive, but also the discipline and commitment required to perform at a consistently high level.

In addition to her state honors, Ivanna has been selected as a finalist for the distinguished Gatorade National Girls Basketball Player of the Year award, which will be announced later this month. From a nationwide pool of 610 Gatorade State Players of the Year, 12 student-athletes distinguish themselves as the best of the best and claim the title of Gatorade National Player of the Year. This national distinction further underscores her impact and places her among the top high school basketball players in the country.

Dominance on the Court

A 6-foot-2 guard, Ivanna has been a driving force for the Bulldogs’ success. This past season, she led Bullis to a 24–6 record and captured the 2026 Maryland Private School State Tournament title.

She delivered a dominant statistical season, averaging 20.7 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.2 steals, 1.9 assists, and 1.9 blocks per game. In the state championship game—a 62–50 victory over Bishop McNamara High School—she contributed eight points, 14 rebounds, six steals, and four blocks, showcasing her ability to impact the game across multiple facets.

Ivanna’s talent and production have also been recognized on the national stage. She is one of five national finalists for the Naismith Award and was selected to the USA Basketball Under-17 Women’s National Team at just 14 years old. She is currently ranked as the No. 2 recruit in the Class of 2027 by ESPN and 247Sports.

A Reflection of Bullis Athletics

Ivanna’s recognition adds to the growing legacy of Bullis School athletics, which continues to develop student-athletes who excel at the highest levels. The program emphasizes a balance of academic achievement, athletic performance, and exemplary character—values that are reflected in Ivanna’s accomplishments both on and off the court.

Celebrating Leadership and Character

In addition to her performance, Ivanna’s award acknowledges the leadership and character she brings to her team and community. Her presence on the court is matched by her influence as a teammate and role model within the Bullis community.

Bullis Athletics shared its congratulations, noting:

“An incredible honor that reflects not only her elite performance on the court, but also her leadership, work ethic, and impact on everyone around her.

Historic talent. Relentless competitor. Even better teammate.

Proud is an understatement.”

Looking Ahead

As Ivanna continues through her junior year, this recognition represents another milestone in an already distinguished high school career. Her accomplishments speak to her strength as a student-athlete and to Bullis’ commitment to supporting students in reaching their full potential.

Bullis School celebrates Ivanna on this outstanding accomplishment and looks forward to her continued success in the seasons ahead.