Scott Nickerson
Elmore Autauga News
Stanhope Elmore Junior Heaven Bailey had a big season for the Lady Mustangs’ basketball team. The Mustangs were ranked in the Top 10 of Class 6A for the latter part of the year and posted an overall record of 29-4. Bailey averaged 19.8 points per game, 7 assists, 6 steals, and 4.3 rebounds per game. Alabama Max Preps had Bailey as #1 in Class 6A in assists and field goals made, and #2 in points and steals. Based on that outstanding season, the Elmore Autauga News has named Bailey as the Elmore County Girls’ Basketball Player of the Year.
“I feel very blessed,” said Bailey. “It is a huge accomplishment that I am truly grateful for. It means a lot to represent my school and county.”
After scorching through the regular season with only three losses, the Lady Mustangs won the regular season Class 6A Area 4 championship, hosted the area tournament, and then beat Wetumpka for the third time this season to clinch the Area 4 tournament championship and the right to host the 1st round of the playoffs. Bailey was named the Most Valuable Player of the Class 6A Area 4 tournament.
The Mustangs hosted Blount in the 1st round of the Class 6A playoffs and Bailey went off for 31 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals, to advance to the Class 6A Sweet 16.
The junior realizes some of the factors that led to the successful season.
“I spent a lot of time in the gym working on my craft and improving every part of my game. I also watched a lot of films to see mistakes that I made and to learn about my opponent’s next move. Also, I had great teammates and coaches who trusted me and had confidence in me. That made all the difference in the world,” said Bailey.
Ranked #6 entering the playoffs, the Mustangs got a tough draw and faced #2 ranked Park Crossing, the defending Class 6A state champs, in the Class 6A Sweet 16. The Mustangs season ended earlier than hoped for, but Bailey is already planning for a deeper playoff run in 2027.
“My goals are to continue to improve my game and to continue the team success we had this year. But this time I want to win a state championship. I want to keep improving my overall game such as being more aggressive on defense, being more of a dynamic scorer, and continue to improve my leadership skills,” said Bailey.
