WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — Few Hilltoppers have left as complete a legacy on and off the court as Michael Jebbia, who starred for the West Liberty men's basketball program from 1998–2002 before going on to a distinguished teaching and coaching career in his hometown.

Jebbia made an immediate impact as a freshman, earning 1999 WVIAC Freshman of the Year honors and setting the tone for a record-setting career. The smooth-scoring guard became the leading scorer on four straight teams, joining fellow Hall of Famer Tom Ackerman as one of just two Hilltoppers ever to earn three consecutive First Team All-WVIAC selections.

By the time he graduated, Jebbia had firmly etched his name in the record book — finishing second in school history with 2,067 career points. A model of consistency, he reached double figures in 103 of 112 career games, shot better than 50 percent from the field, and ranked among the program's all-time leaders in steals (177), assists (268), and single-game scoring (44 points vs. Alderson Broaddus).

After earning his degree in Physical and Health Education in 2003, Jebbia turned his focus to shaping the next generation. He's now in his 23rd year teaching at Wheeling Park High School and preparing for his 20th season as the Patriots' head boys' basketball coach. He also coached cross country from 2004–2011. Jebbia and his wife, Jenny — also a West Liberty graduate — have been married for 11 years.

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Sport you played at West Liberty?
Men's Basketball

Major?
Physical Education/Health Education

Years you attended West Liberty?
1998–2003

What are you doing now?
I am currently in my 23rd year teaching at Wheeling Park High School. This will be my 20th season as head boys' basketball coach at WPHS, and I also coached cross country from 2004–2011. I have been married to my wife, Jenny, for 11 years — she is also a West Liberty graduate.

Favorite memory of West Liberty?
As a student, my favorite memory is all the great people I met while I was there. Whether it was teachers or fellow students, my experience at West Liberty was very positive. As a basketball player, beating Salem International twice in the same season when they were ranked No. 4 in the country. Also, being a part of the first team to play in the Academic, Sports, and Recreation Complex (2000–2001).

Advice to current athletes or students?
Take things one day at a time. College is going to be filled with highs and lows. Enjoy the journey and be resilient when something does not go your way — there will be better days ahead.

What does it mean to be an alumnus of West Liberty?
I take a great deal of pride in being a West Liberty graduate. I really enjoyed my time when I was there and am forever grateful for the opportunities I had while I was at West Liberty. As an educator today, I'm always encouraging Wheeling Park students to look at West Liberty for their college choice.

Most influential coaches, teachers, or teammates during your time here?
Coaches: Dan Petri, Jim Crutchfield, Mike Snell, Zach Robertson
Teachers: Rhonda Noble, Vince Monseau, Rick Price
Teammates: Jerry Ammirante, Eric Gilbert, JT Hoyng, Brad Ring