01 Feb 2025 Markalon Rochell – Maumelle (501 Basketball Team 2025)

As soon as Markalon Rochell learned to walk, he had a basketball in his hands. Now a senior, he’s lighting up scoreboards across the 501 as one of the best shooters Maumelle has ever seen.

In December, he became the third player in Hornets history to surpass 1,000 points scored. A walking double-double, Rochell leads his team to victory through downhill quickness and strong two-way play.

“Markalon’s best qualities on the court are his athleticism, length, rebounding, defense and ability to score from anywhere,” Maumelle Head Coach Michael Shook said. “He’s kind, humble, a great student and a great friend. We expect him to be a vital part of our team’s success this year.”

Featuring multiple All-Conference, All-State and All-Tournament honors, Rochell will soon need a bigger trophy case. The senior said he’s saving room for one more accomplishment, however. “I want to win a state championship,” he said. “We will achieve this by having better chemistry and playing together as a team.”

Tripped up in the Class 5A quarterfinals last season, the Hornets are hitting their stride when it matters the most this season. Defeating North Little Rock to win the Hot Springs Invitational Tournament championship, the Hornets show no signs of slowing down with the postseason looming ahead.

Collegiate coaches are already fighting over where Rochell will play next season, with multiple offers being thrown the senior’s way.

“I want to thank God for everything he has given me and my family for helping me go through my basketball journey,” he said.