On National Signing Day, student-athletes across the country committed to continuing their athletic careers at the next level. Southern Miss women’s basketball took advantage of the day by signing two new players: Meg Barbour of Jackson and Jada Gay of Starkville.
Barbour is a senior out of Jackson Preparatory School that played her way to the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools 6A All-State Team in her junior season. She helped the Patriots reach a 26-7 overall finish and an 8-2 district finish as the team won their second consecutive MAIS 6A title.
“Meg possesses multiple skills that fit our system,” Bilderback said. “She is an excellent shooter but also has the ability to expose matchups inside. She is agile on defense with great length and shot blocking ability. She will come in with a great foundation from her high school and club programs. We are so excited to welcome Meg to our Lady Eagle Family.”
Prior to her senior season, Barbour earned a spot on the Capital Sports Fantastic 15 Watchlist. She averaged 11.1 points, nine rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 1.6 blocks. She shot from the field at a 48% clip and a 30% clip from behind the three point line.
Barbour plays in the prep circuit for the Nike Elite Youth Champions League team, AL Southern Starz located in Huntsville, Ala.
Gay, a senior at Starkville High School, is considered by many one of the top recruits in the state. Gay returned to the court late in her junior season after tearing her ACL in her sophomore season. Her return is when she helped Starkville to the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 7A State Championship Game. Similar to Meg Barbour, Gay was named to the Capital Sports Fantastic 15.
In limited action last season, Gay averaged 12.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.5 steals and two blocks per game. Upon her return she led the Yellowjackets to a district title and well into the playoffs.
“Jada is an extremely versatile player with a high motor,” said Bilderback. “She can score in multiple ways inside and from the perimeter. Her size and athleticism separate her and will give her the ability to impact our roster immediately. She plays in a great high school and club program and knows how to win. We are thrilled Jada will be in the Black & Gold.”
Gay is a top contender for the Clarion-Ledger’s Dandy Dozen.
Outside of school, she plays for the Nike EYCL Mississippi ALL-N. Gay is also the younger sister of current Miami Dolphins and former Mississippi State linebacker Willie Gay.
Gay committed to Southern Miss over Jackson State, Louisiana Tech, Middle Tennessee, Mississippi State, Ole Miss, South Alabama, and others.
Considering the experience and tenure of many Lady Golden Eagles on the roster, snagging quality young talent like these two recruits is key to keeping what Coach Bilderback has going going!
