For Madison Moore, basketball has been more than just a sport—it’s been a way of life since she first picked up a ball in second grade. Inspired by holiday games with her dad and grandfather, Madison’s journey as an athlete has led her to become one of the most impactful players in Randolph Lady Raiders Basketball history. Now a senior and a four-year varsity player, Madison is embracing her role as a leader while continuing to make history on the court.

"I started playing basketball in second grade and have loved it ever since," Madison shared. "During the holidays, I used to play basketball with my dad and grandfather, and that was what made me want to start playing on a team."

This season, Madison has cemented her place in the program’s history books as the second all-time leading rebounder and set a career-high of 23 points in a single game. But her contributions go beyond the stat sheet. Known as a role model and leader, Madison is focused on leaving a lasting legacy for the Lady Raiders.

"I hope I can be a memorable leader and a good example for the team," Madison said.

When reflecting on her time at Randolph, Madison couldn’t pick just one favorite memory. From thrilling tournaments to day-to-day moments with teammates, her basketball journey has been filled with special highlights.

"Some of my favorites are the Christmas tournament from my sophomore year when we got 2nd place and the game last year that led us to the Area championship game," she recalled. "Some of my favorite moments that aren't from a game, though, are just from spending time with the team laughing and being around each other."

It’s the camaraderie and support of her teammates and coaches that Madison treasures most. "My teammates are some of my closest friends, and getting to play the sport I love with them is truly a blessing. Having them through all the challenging moments can really help," she said. "I am so grateful to my coaches for their support throughout my time playing basketball, and not seeing my teammates and coaches every day next year is something I am going to miss so much."

Madison credits the Lady Raiders program with shaping her both on and off the court. "Basketball has shaped me tremendously into the person I am today. It has taught me how to work together as a team and to also put others before myself," she explained.

This season, Madison is focused on both personal and team growth. "My goal for myself this year has been to get more rebounds and to shoot more often," she said. "For the team, I just hope we can be competitive in each game and improve as a team."

Reflecting on last year’s success, including an Area Tournament runner-up finish and a Round of 32 appearance, Madison emphasized the importance of teamwork. "Last year, and really the year before too, taught us to believe in ourselves and to work as a team. We played for each other more than we ever have before, and I think that is what brought us success," she said.

Madison has looked up to past leaders, including Joanna Vega, and hopes to inspire younger players in the same way. "She was a great leader for our team and a great player too, and I hope I can be a great leader to others like she was to me," Madison said.

Her advice to younger players is simple but profound: "Enjoy every moment because my high school basketball career truly flew by. Lots of times I would try and strive for perfection, and that sucks the fun out of the game. Learning how to deal with your mistakes on the court and remembering to have fun is so important, and I wish I would've figured that out sooner."

As Madison prepares for life beyond Randolph, her love for basketball will continue. While she doesn’t plan to play at the collegiate level, she looks forward to staying involved through intramural basketball at either the University of Alabama or Auburn University.

"I hope that I can spread my love and passion for the game to the rest of the team," she said. "And I hope that I will be a memorable leader to them on the court, but also off the court."

Make plans to catch Madison and the Lady Raiders in action this month as they continue area play. Their next game is Thursday night against Westminster Christian at 6:00pm in the Shields-Jones Athletic Complex.