‘When you know, you know’: Albertville guard Lani Smallwood commits to Mississippi State
Lani Smallwood, an eighth-grade basketball standout from Albertville, recently announced her commitment to play for Mississippi State, marking a significant milestone in her athletic career. Smallwood’s journey began when she received her first Division I scholarship offer, and through determination and hard work, she eventually accumulated multiple offers before deciding on Mississippi State. This summer, after attending an elite camp, she was thrilled to receive the offer from the Bulldogs.
At 5-foot-8, the junior guard boasts impressive stats, including an average of 20.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game last season at Susan Moore. Smallwood appreciated the genuine connections she established with Mississippi State’s coaching staff, particularly head coach Sam Purcell and assistant Fred Castro. Their supportive communication played a crucial role in her decision, making her feel welcomed and valued.
Her mother, Natasha, who recently took over as head coach at Albertville, has witnessed Lani’s growth throughout this recruitment process, highlighting her maturity and understanding of the game. With Mississippi State also securing commitments from other talented players, Smallwood is optimistic about the team’s future. As she prepares for the upcoming season with Albertville, she aims to focus on her personal development and contribute to both her high school team and the Bulldogs in the years to come.
Read the complete article here: https://www.al.com/highschoolsports/2024/10/when-you-know-you-know-albertville-guard-lani-smallwood-commits-to-mississippi-state.html
