The Starkville girls basketball team is gearing up for another run at the top, fresh off its MHSAA Class 7A championship last year, and head coach Matt Wilbanks is already shaping the next chapter.
Wilbanks has embraced a teaching mindset, aware that the departure of seven seniors, including standout players Jada Gay and Jade Brown, leaves a sizable void to fill.
To bridge the gap, the Jackets have logged a string of scrimmages against strong opponents, testing their mettle against teams from across the state.
The schedule includes contests with Pontotoc, a matchup at Mississippi State, and a showdown with Itawamba Community College, giving the youngsters exposure to varied styles of play.
Wilbanks has already overseen 11 games this summer and plans to push toward 22 before the regular season begins, using each contest as a laboratory for growth.
Returning starters Zariah Brown, Logan Warren and Yasmine Roberts provide a foundation, but the roster also welcomes newcomers such as Rylee Willis and Kamare Holmes, all of whom are eager to prove themselves.
A recent setback saw Zariah Brown fracture her thumb, opening the door for additional playing time for emerging guards and forcing the team to adapt quickly.
Despite a 5‑6 record in the summer circuit, the coaching staff remains optimistic, emphasizing consistency and the development of a core group that could contend for the state title.
Building Momentum
The ultimate aim is to preserve Starkville’s basketball pedigree and keep the program in the conversation for another championship run, a goal that fuels daily practice and every scrimmage.