Kendyl Smith Joins Liberty Women’s Basketball for 2026-27
Kendyl Smith, a talented point guard from Michigan, is set to join the Liberty women’s basketball team for the 2026-27 season. She’s the fourth freshman signing, alongside other players such as Peace Ashina, Trinity Holsinger, and Amari Worsham.
Smith is a standout at Powers Catholic High School in Flint. She earned recognition as a finalist for the Michigan Miss Basketball award and holds the title of all-time leading scorer at her school. Remarkably, she is one of only eight girls in Michigan to score over 1,500 points and dish out more than 500 assists in her high school career.
Her impressive stats include 1,759 points, 461 rebounds, 536 assists, and 288 steals. Smith was also a top-notch three-point shooter, making 271 threes at a 34.1% average. In her senior year, she averaged 18.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 2.7 steals per game. She led her team to the Michigan Division 2 state semifinals, scoring 32 points in that crucial game. Over four years, her teams maintained an outstanding record of 88-15.
Smith expressed her excitement about joining Liberty: “I chose Liberty because it felt like family. I believe this is where I can grow as a player and express my faith.”
What Others Are Saying
Liberty’s head coach, Alexis Sherard, is enthusiastic about Smith’s potential. She noted, “Kendyl is not just a great shooter; she embodies the values that align with our program: faith, discipline, and putting others first. We expect her to make a strong impact both on and off the court.”
Insights from the Basketball Community
In recent years, the emphasis on recruiting players with strong character has grown in college athletics. A 2020 NCAA study revealed that 75% of college coaches prioritize character and teamwork over purely athletic ability when scouting players. This trend highlights the importance of not just skill but also the values and mindset a player brings to the team.
As Smith prepares to step into her new role, many in the basketball community are keen to see how her skills translate to the college level. Incoming athletes like her are often met with challenges, but they can also make significant contributions with the right support.
With her talent and dedication, Kendyl Smith is poised to be a meaningful addition to the Liberty Flames.
