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Porter’s Chapel Academy basketball players Jae’la Smith and Lauren Madison signed collegiate basketball scholarships on Friday.
Lauren Madison:
Lauren Madison chose Meridian Community College as her next destination as a student-athlete. Since the fifth grade, Madison has
been dribbling a basketball where she first began at the Vicksburg YMCA. She continued to play throughout junior high and eventually high school at Warren Central before transferring to PCA in her senior year.
John Wyatt Massey, Lauren Madison, Jae’la Smith and Madison Grey: Photo by Richard Miller
At PCA, Madison joined Smith, who was once her teammate at WC. Lauren would eventually become a pro-dominant basketball player as a senior, where she led the Lady Eagles inside
the paint.
Madison’s senior year under Head Coach Casey Fisher was nothing short of magical, where she averaged 11 points and nine rebounds per game. She helped PCA reach the state tournament in 2024.
“I had a good support system here and I really didn’t think I would play basketball, but PCA gave me the opportunity to keep playing my favorite sport,” Madison said.
After putting up big numbers against Humphrey’s Academy (20 points) and Tallulah Academy (22 points), Madison was selected to the All-District Team and the MAIS All-Star Game.
Lauren Madison: Photo by Richard Miller
Now that high school basketball is behind her, Madison is now focused on becoming a college athlete.
“Everything disappears when I’m on the court and basketball has always been my peace,” Lauren said.”I’m excited to play in college, but I’m also a little nervous, but I know I’ll do fine because I’m ready for something new.”
Madison worked hard to achieve this goal, but she quickly acknowledged those who helped get her to this point.
“I want to thank my brother, my grandma, my past and present teammates, as well as all of my coaches over the years.”
Lauren Madison, Jae’la Smith and former coaches: Photo by Richard Miller
Jae’la Smith:
Jae ‘la Smith already made her mark this season as Warren County’s lead scorer for the 2024 season. She will now be heading to Pearl River Community College to continue her
stardom.
“They have a family atmosphere out there, so that was a huge reason on why I chose PRCC, and I love the direction that the program is heading in,” Smith said.
Smith began playing basketball in the seventh grade at Warren Central Junior High. She eventually made her way to starring on the varsity team in high school, where she was a true point guard for the Lady Vikes.
Jae ‘la made the decision to transfer to PCA for her senior year, where she had eight games where she scored over 30 points, including a career-high of 44 points. Smith was the main contributor in the Lady Eagles’ program that made it to the State Tournament.
Jae’la Smith: Photo by Richard Miller
Without any opposition, Smith was selected as District MVP, Offensive Player of the Year, and Defensive Player of the Year, as well as being
named VDN’s Player of the Year.
“I enjoyed every minute of high school basketball, and it was complicated at times, but it was all worth it,” Jae’la added.
Smith’s journey wasn’t over after the playoffs. She was also selected to the MAIS All-Star Game, where she was named MVP after scoring 33 points.
Smith chose PRCC over multiple other schools, and she will soon be playing for one of the top junior colleges in the nation.
Smith thanked those who stood by her during her basketball career.
Jae’la Smith signing day
“I want to thank my parents for everything as well as everyone who ever coached me,” she said. A special shoutout goes to all my teammates from over the years along with Kimani amd Kathryn. Also I want to thank my entire family and friends.”
Jae’la is the daughter of Jeff and Nikki Smith.
Jae’la Smith signing day: Photo by Richard Miller
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PCA cheerleader Madison Grey signs with Delta State University
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