Recruiting Class Overview
After finishing 18–12 overall and 10–6 in conference play, the program enters the 2026 season with momentum and a strengthened roster. The Lady Pioneers placed fourth in regular-season Region 2 competition last year and now add a nine-player recruiting class built around seven true freshmen and two transfers having a solid mix of an in-state and out-of-state presence.
The class reflects a broader recruiting reach under Head Coach Wade Whaley, with an emphasis on adding length and overall athleticism to the roster.
That balance should give the staff more flexibility across lineups, especially as the Lady Pioneers look to build on last season's conference finish and compete more consistently against the top teams in Region 2. With added size in the frontcourt and multiple guards and wings who arrive with proven production, the group gives Whaley more options on both ends of the floor.
"A coach's job is always to recruit better than what you had the year before," Whaley said. "Considering the achievements and success of this incoming freshman class, I feel we did a great job of doing just that."
Transfers
Markella Psarra, 5'11 F (Northeastern JC) — A college-ready forward who brings toughness, versatility, and two-way value; averaged 3.2 points and 2.0 rebounds per game.
Maddie Byrd, 6'5 C (Waldorf) — Adds elite size, rim protection, interior scoring potential, and a strong rebounding presence in the paint.
Freshmen
Asia Blackledge / Alva HS (OK) — All-District and All-Region honoree with 500+ career rebounds, four state-tournament appearances, and class valedictorian honors.
Jakary Brown / Carl Albert HS (OK) — State champion MVP, All-State selection, District MVP, 1,000+ career-point scorer, and class valedictorian.
Ma'Kayla Carr / Richardson HS (TX) — All-State honoree, two-time District MVP, and standout producer with 1,500+ career points and 800+ rebounds.
Reagan Wright / Anna HS (TX) — Three-time First Team All-District selection with 1,300+ points, 500+ assists, and 400+ steals.
Ja'ah Bryant-Smith / Independence HS (TX) — 2026 District Offensive Player of the Year, First Team All-District honoree, and 500+ rebound performer.
LeiNani Smith / Boswell HS (TX) — All-District Honorable Mention selection with two state-tournament appearances and two Academic All-District honors.
Together, the freshmen arrive with a résumé that includes state-tournament experience, all-state and all-district recognition, high-level academic achievement, and major statistical milestones. That combination of competitive background and classroom success was a key part of the staff's evaluation process.
Returners Set the Tone
Coach Wade Whaley believes returning guards Alana Davis and Stoney Cully give the program a strong foundation for the 2026 season. "We have two really good returners from last year's team in Alana and Stoney, so to surround them with this level of talent definitely makes me excited for what we can do next season," Whaley said.
Davis brings proven scoring production (13ppg), while Cully adds playmaking (2nd in assists) and stability after starting 29 of the 30 games as a freshman. Paired with a newcomer class built around rebounding, athleticism and experience winning, the Lady Pioneers have the pieces to make a push in Region 2 during Whaley's second season at the helm.
Their leadership will be especially important early in the season as the newcomers adjust to the pace, physicality, and expectations of the college game. Davis and Cully's experience should help set the standard in practice while giving the coaching staff dependable voices on the floor.
Season Outlook and Opening Dates
Whaley said the roster's added skill and character have created high expectations for the year ahead. "We are longer, more athletic, more skilled, and have some really great people from top to bottom this year," he said. "It will be my job to lead them in the right direction so we can accomplish what I think will be a very special season." The regular season begins October 30–31 at the Beaver Classic in Pratt, Kansas and the Lady Pioneers' home opener is November 3 against Hill College.
The early schedule will provide a quick measuring stick for a roster blending experienced returners, transfers, and first-year players. If the group develops chemistry quickly, the Lady Pioneers expect to be deeper, more versatile, and better equipped to challenge throughout conference play.
