Exciting Days Ahead for Albertville’s Lani Smallwood
In the bustling city of Albertville, Alabama, the air is filled with anticipation as local basketball star Lani Smallwood promises to bring her flair and determination to the court. Recently, the talented guard shared some thrilling news that has basketball enthusiasts buzzing: she’s committed to playing basketball at Mississippi State University!
From Humble Beginnings
It’s a remarkable journey that started back when Lani was just an eighth grader. That’s when she received her very first Division I offer, a moment filled with both excitement and determination. “Working hard and having true dedication to it has truly brought me to where I am today,” Lani reflected on her early days in high school sports. She’s faced a rollercoaster of emotions throughout her recruitment—initial offers, followed by a lull, and then a flurry of opportunities this past summer.
Hard Work Pays Off
Fast forward to her junior year, and Lani was ready to announce her future. After an unforgettable visit to Starkville, it all clicked for her. “I didn’t see a point in dragging this out,” she explained. “When you know, you know, and I didn’t want to wait any longer.”
Her commitment to Mississippi State came after she entertained offers from several other schools, including Murray State, UAB, and South Alabama, among others. It was during an elite camp that she earned the coveted offer from Mississippi State, a program that was becoming well-known in collegiate basketball.
Why Mississippi State?
Not only was Mississippi State an attractive option because of their solid reputation in basketball, but it also stood out to her due to the genuine connection she felt with the coaching staff. Lani described her experience with head coach Sam Purcell and assistant coach Fred Castro as incredibly welcoming. “They made me feel like they wanted me,” she said, clearly touched by the way they communicated with her throughout the recruiting process.
Her mother, Natasha Smallwood, who recently took the coaching role at Albertville high school after a decade leading Susan Moore, has had a unique perspective on her daughter’s journey. “It’s been so much fun watching her grow,” Natasha stated. This journey hasn’t just been about basketball; it’s been a shared adventure between mother and daughter.
Common Goals and Dreams
Lani’s decision to commit early comes with the goal of developing her skills in preparation for both her tasks with Albertville and her future with Mississippi State. She plans to refine her game over the next two years, ensuring she’s ready to make an immediate impact. “If I would have waited, I would have had a year to work on things that I need for college,” Lani explained. “Now I have two years, and I can work on what I need to improve.”
Looking Ahead
As the season approaches—kicking off on November 8 against Decatur—it’s clear that Lani is focused on her goals. With the future looking bright not just for her, but also for Mississippi State as they welcome new prospects like Jaylah Lampley and Madison Francis, the excitement is palpable on both ends.
In the end, Lani Smallwood’s story is one of hard work, persistence, and unyielding passion for the game she loves. With the support of her family, coaches, and community, she’s on track to make waves in the basketball world. Keep an eye out for this promising star as she makes her way to the court—and beyond!
