Conference: 7-4A
Coach: Jess Martin (seventh year Malvern, 212-91 overall record)
Assistant coach: Cleveland Gordon
Last year’s record: 21-11 (10-4 in the 7-4A; regular season and district tournament runner-up; lost in the first round of the state tournament to eventual state champion Shiloh Christian)
Returning starters: Ayshia Walsh (5-foot-9 senior post who averaged 12 points per game last season); Jayla Gaines (5-7 junior guard, 4 ppg); and Shakara Penix (5-5 junior guard, 5 ppg).
Best inside players: “Walsh will play post some because of her experience and ability to score, but we also have two talented sophomores in Akasha Westbrook and Alivia Huell who will also see time in the post,” Martin said. "Westbrook is 5-9 and plays extremely hard. She is also versatile and has a soft touch. Huell is 5-10 and has to be one of the most athletic girls in the state. She can already grab the rim. I’m very excited about all three post players and their potential.”
Best perimeter players: “We have some depth at the guard and forward spots. Sophomore Tiffany Murdock, is 5-8 and is strong with the ball, yet can knock down the open 3 if left open. Also we have a trio of juniors who can play both the guard and forward spots in Jayla Gaines, who can hit the open shot; along with Michelle Jones (5-4) and Shakara Penix, who are both defensive standouts that can score in transition when the opportunity arises," Martin said.
How will you match/exceed/fall short of your success from last year? “We expect to contend for a spot in the state tournament. The key will be how fast our young players develop along with our older players understanding their role and providing leadership," Martin said.
Strengths of team: "We will be very athletic, and we also have more depth this year, which will allow us to be more aggressive. Tradition is also important, as our kids are competitive and expect to win," Martin said.
Weaknesses of team: Lack of height and inexperience. We have to replace some starters from last year with some players who have limited or no senior-high experience," Martin said. He also said rebounding will have to improve for his team to be successful.
Games to watch: Pulaski Academy. "They have all five starters back and will be the team to beat in our conference," Martin said.
Toughest opponent: Nashville. "We have developed a rivalry with them," Martin said.
College prospects: None