BOOKER T. WASHINGTON LADY HORNETS

GIRLS

Coach: Rabu Leyva

22-23 Record: 20-9

Expectations are always high at Booker T. Washington High School. The storied program enters the 2023-24 season with clear optimism for the future of the program under head coach Rabu Leyva. Riding the success of last season, the Lady Hornets are poised for a big year. “Made the state tournament last year in Class 6A and we return all of our starters from that team. Excited to compete at the Class 5A level this year and hope to be competing for a state championship,” said Leyva. One reason for the optimistic outlook is the return of prolific scorer Marcayla Johnson (6-0, Jr.) who averaged 18 points and 8.0 rebounds per game last year. The Baylor commit led the team in both categories and is a dynamic player who is comfortable playing inside or on the perimeter. Alexis Leyva (5-11, So.) had a breakout season as a freshman and returns to pick up where she left off. Leyva averaged 9.6 points, 6.0

rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game from her guard spot and has received interest from next level schools. Tierra Owens (5-5, Jr.) has the tools on both ends of the court to be a real problem for opponents. Owens averaged 8.5 points and 2.3 steals per game. But the scoring doesn’t stop with Owens. Rhyian Mayberry (5-7, Jr.) averaged 7.0 points a game while Ky’Lin Johnson-Cooper (5-5, So.) averaged 8.8 points a game. The pair will play a big role in the overall success of the team. One player who everyone is excited to see develop this season is Bailey Braxton (6-3, Jr.). As a sophomore Braxton averaged 4.0 points with 5.0 rebounds a game. Those numbers could see a big increase this season with more minutes. The only senior on the roster is Railyn Watkins. Watkins has battled through injuries the past two seasons but continues to work and support the team. She has become a vocal leader for the Lady Hornets. Assisting coach Leyva are coaches Rachel Block, Roscoe Migliore, Reginald Terry, Chasity Workman, and Heather Erdman.