Lady Trojans Enter Conference Play Focused on Growth, Resilience, and the Next Generation

By Neshun Holmes

The Mississippi Delta Community College Lady Trojans enter the 2025–26 conference season in a year defined by transition, resilience, and long-term growth.

This season's roster features nine freshmen and three sophomores, marking a significant rebuild for a program coming off recent success. The 2024–25 Lady Trojans opened the season 11–0 before conference play, led by a veteran group of nine sophomores who have since graduated. With those departures, this year's team carries big expectations and even bigger shoes to fill.

Anchoring the young roster are sophomore returners X'Zaylah Yarbor and Makayla Robertson. Yarbor has stepped into a leadership role after limited action last season and is averaging 6.1 points, 6.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds, serving as a steady presence for a freshman-heavy lineup.

MDCC also added key experience through the transfer portal with Imari Humphrey, a guard/forward transfer from Georgia, as the Lady Trojans closed preseason play with a 6–3 record.

The season has not been without adversity. The Lady Trojans are currently navigating the loss of two players to ACL injuries, an uncommon challenge during Coach Banks' tenure.

"It's unfortunate, but things happen that are out of our control," Coach Banks said. "We're praying for a speedy recovery for both of our Lady Trojans."

Despite the setbacks, several freshmen have already made an impact. E'kemi Johnson leads the team with 13.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 2.0 blocks per game, while Za'Kensly Yarbor is averaging 8.7 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.9 rebounds. Kanjia Marshall has added 6.1 points and 5.4 rebounds, providing physicality and effort in the paint.

While the group continues to adjust to the speed and physicality of the collegiate game, growth remains the priority.

"This season will be a learning curve," Coach Banks noted. "Everyone expects us to get back to the Final Four, but I'm starting over this year. I'm looking forward to watching my team grow and get better."

Conference play begins tonight, January 12, as the Lady Trojans travel to face the Copiah-Lincoln Community College Lady Wolves at 5:30 p.m. in Wesson. The matchup marks an important early test as MDCC looks to establish rhythm and confidence within conference competition.

Though the roster is young, belief remains strong within the program. The Lady Trojans are committed to working hard, competing every night, and continuing the legacy built by those who came before them.

"We all have high expectations," Coach Banks said. "My players want to win, and they want to keep that legacy thriving."

Graphic by Neshun Holmes