CITIZEN STAFF REPORT
INEZ — It’s that time of year, Cardinal fans. Martin County High School is set to host its annual Cardinal Madness Red and White games Saturday. This exciting event offers local fans a sneak peek at the upcoming high school girls and boys basketball teams. Fans will also get an early look at all the upcoming local talent as Martin County Middle and Inez, Eden and Warfield elementaries showcase their boys teams.
The Martin County Lady Cardinals are fresh off a stellar 26-6 season and back-to-back 57th District Championships. The Lady Cards return four seniors and a deep bench, with the only setback being the absence of rising sophomore Sophie Harless due to a torn labrum injury that will require surgery. Harless was vital to the Lady Cards rotation, and her absence will be felt.
Key players returning from last season include Laken Williams, a top 20 scorer in the state known for her incredible speed and ability to reach the basket. Williams will be a significant force on the court, much like her running mate Katie Marcum, who excelled in double-double games last season. Senior Alyssa Allen, who came on strong during tournament play last season, will be crucial in leading the Lady Cards this season. Another senior, Kennadi Mollett, known for her three-point shooting and versatile gameplay, will make her final appearance as a Lady Cardinal. The Lady Cards also welcome back Candace Spaulding, the only junior on the team, known for her relentless defensive energy.
Rising sophomores Brooke Marcum and Chloe May had great off-seasons and have gotten stronger. These two young players are expected to make a significant impact this season and in the coming years. The team also returns Jane Smith, Angelina Moore and Bella Robinson from last season.
An exciting addition to the Lady Cardinals roster is the 8th-grade 6-foot-4 Maci Maynard. Maynard is already getting attention statewide and gives the Lady Cards size and depth. Newcomer Annaleigh Davis, a 7th-grader, also shows great potential to become one of the state’s top guards as she continues to develop. Other new additions to the team include 7th-grade guard Anna Hinkle, 8th-grader Bri Muncy, and freshmen Aaliyah Scott and Alivia Muncy.
On the boys side, the Martin County Cardinals are riding high after a historic season, boasting a 24-11 record, 15th Region All “A” Championship, a first in school history, and the 15th Region Tournament Championship. With four starters and a deep bench, the Cardinals are gearing up to make another run.
Key returning players for the Cardinals include senior Luke Hale, who averaged an impressive 20.3 points per game. Brayden McKenzie contributed with 15.2 points per game, and Jacob Sturgell, a key figure in the middle, led the team in rebounds with an average of 6.2 per game. Point guard Dray Duff was a leader in assists and caused havoc with his speed and defensive steals. Senior Blake Maynard provided valuable contributions off the bench, averaging 3.2 points per game last season. Peyton Davis, a key offensive and defensive player off the bench, averaged 6.7 points per game and had an impressive 40.2% three-point shooting average. Although Davis had a foot injury during the offseason, he has returned stronger than ever.
Sophomore Devan Maynard has all-around athleticism on offense and defense. Maynard gives the Cardinals another scoring threat. Sharpshooter Eli Mills, Brayden Estep and 8th-grader Bryson Dials, who will play up this year, will also be returning.
The event features a full day of games, including matchups between Martin County elementary teams and the Martin County Middle School. The Martin County Lady Cardinals and Cardinals take the floor to cap off the day.
Here’s the schedule for the event:
– 12:00 p.m.: Warfield Elementary School B-Team vs. Inez Elementary B-Team
– 12:45 p.m.: Inez Elementary B-Team vs. Eden Elementary B-Team
– 2:15 p.m.: Inez Elementary A-Team
– 3:10 p.m.: Martin County Middle vs. Fort Gay
– 4 p.m.: Warfield Elementary A-Team
– 4:55 p.m.: Eden A-Team
Jackie’s Gymnastics All-Star Tumblers
– 6:15 p.m.: Martin County Lady Cardinals
Jackie’s Gymnastics All-Star Tumblers
– 7 p.m.: Martin County Cardinals
In addition to the exciting basketball action, a delicious spaghetti dinner will be served from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m.
The event will also feature a performance by Jackie’s All-Star Tumblers, MCHS Dance Cards, and the Inez Dance Team.
Don’t miss this opportunity to support your local basketball teams and join the Martin County community in celebrating a jam-packed day of basketball at Cardinal Madness.
Tickets for all games and the spaghetti dinner can be purchased for just $10. Look for a Lady Cardinal or Cardinal basketball player to secure your tickets in advance, or you can buy them at the door. If you only want to watch the games without the dinner, tickets can be purchased at the door for $5.