by Levi Gilbert

Alundra McMiller is focused on finishing her senior season with the mindset of being defined by her effort and will — and not by external labels. 

“Basketball is what I’ve grown up around all my life,” McMiller said. “All my family has played basketball while in school, and I’ve grown to love the sport as well. This season, I’m pushing myself to play as hard as I can, make as many shots as I can and lift up my team so that I won’t let them down. 

“Our record doesn’t define us.”

McMiller, a senior forward for the Maumelle Lady Hornets, was selected to this year’s 501 Basketball Team — 34 players representing the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the court. The team is sponsored by Conway Ortho and Sports Medicine Center, Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. McMiller was nominated by her head coach, William Rountree.

“Alundra is a high character, very responsible student-athlete,” Rountree wrote in his nomination. “She’s a leader who works hard and is very caring towards her teammates and classmates.”

As a junior, McMiller led the Lady Hornets in 3-point shooting. Through 11 games this season, she’s the second-leading scorer and rebounder. 

McMiller and the Lady Hornets (3-8) have one last non-conference matchup on Thursday at Morrilton before taking an extended break heading into the holidays. The matchup with the Lady Devil Dogs offers one last chance to focus in before the real season begins. 

“We’re focused on working as a team and trying our hardest not to give up regardless of what’s been said about us,” McMiller said. “I’m focused on the court on working harder, and off the court, my focus is conditioning.”

Conditioning is the key for McMiller, who is able to stretch the opposing defense with her 3-point shooting — but she is also called on to be a big presence on the boards. 

“She has worked very hard to get in shape this year,” said Rountree, praising McMiller. “Her perimeter shooting and leadership are expected.” 

When she’s not playing basketball, McMiller can be found honing her hair styling craft. After high school, she plans to pursue cosmetology school and further her passion. 

McMiller and the Lady Hornets play at Morrilton at 5 p.m. today.