STARKVILLE — Many question marks surrounded Starkville girls basketball immediately following the 2022-23 season, namely roster construction.
With such a robust senior class leaving, gaps in production needed to be filled, but news over the summer eased a lot of worry.
Noxubee County senior guard Tootie Lockett, one of the best players in MHSAA Class 3A, announced her intention to transfer to Starkville High School.
Lockett, combined with strong young and returning talent, has made Starkville arguably better than it was last season, and she already has a place to call home following high school.
“I’m excited that I get the opportunity to play at the next level,” Lockett said. “I know it’s going to be hard, but I also know that I’m built for it.”
Earlier this month, Lockett announced her commitment to play at Itawamba Community College, securing the continuation of her basketball career in college.
Last season, she was able to play inside ICC’s gym during the 3A playoffs with the Tigers, and instantly fell in love with the campus and the 3,500 seat Davis Event Center.
“Earlier this year, I went on my official visit there and the environment was even better, including the team and coaches,” Lockett said. “When I stepped foot on campus, I felt so welcomed.”
While only six games into her Starkville career, she’s already made a profound impact on the team, providing stability at the top of the key that is vital for any program looking to chase a state championship.
Her scoring ability alone has contributed to her success on the basketball court, and that success has been recognized by her peers, past and present.
“She opens up things so much for us,” Starkville head coach Kristie Williams said. “We have two very strong posts, so you can’t pack it in like you would usually do. These teams, they have to contend with our perimeter. It makes it hard to figure out who you’re going to guard because we have weapons at each position.”
With her college decision making out of the way, Lockett can now keep her focus on the court and on the Yellow Jackets, with district play looming.
If anyone questioned how much of an adjustment it would be moving up to a 7A school from 3A basketball, that hasn’t seemed to bother her at all as the future college standout looks to finish off her high school career with a ring.
“It means a lot,” Lockett said. “I couldn’t be thankful enough for this opportunity.”
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 46 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 46 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
Join the Discussion