Sheldon's McCartney inks with FSCC

Flanked by family and coaches, Sheldon High School senior Meckinize McCartney puts pen to paper Wednesday afternoon in the school's gym.

Photo by Matt Resnick | Daily Mail

It was a memorable day Wednesday at Sheldon High School, as senior student-athlete Meckinize McCartney signed a national letter-of-intent to continue her academic and athletic careers with Fort Scott (Kan.) Community College.

McCartney, a shooting guard, is set to join the FSCC Greyhound women's basketball program this fall.

"I look forward to Meckinize joining our 2020 signing class," said first-year FSCC head coach, Jordyn Alexander, who was on hand for the signing-day festivities. "She is a high-character kid, that will bring energy and a tough work-ethic to our team. At this point, I believe that she will play (on the) wing, but she also has the ability to score in the lane and rebound."

FSCC's current roster is comprised of just eight players, as the Hound women are off to a 1-13 start.

Alexander is hopeful McCarntey can have an immediate impact at the JUCO level.

"As soon as she is able to come in and work on some stuff that we've talked about — I think she'll do a lot for our team," Alexander said. "And our program, we're looking to turn it around, so I'm hoping for a big year from her."

Alexander said the biggest thing for McCartney will be adjusting to the speed of the game at the college level.

Sheldon's Meckinize McCartney looks to drive to the basket.

Photo by Matt Resnick | Daily Mail

"Every player that I sign is in that same boat," Alexander explained. "They're going to be stunned by the speed of the game — so it's definitely a big change."

McCartney, who has been attending FSCC basketball and volleyball camps since seventh-grade, said taking her game to the college level was a dream come true.

"All the hard work finally paid off, " she said. "I'm excited to step up my game, and have a new basketball family."

McCartney, a sweet-shooting southpaw, discussed areas she'd like to improve upon prior to joining FSCC.

"Being able to control the ball better, especially with my right hand," said McCartney, who has an outside shot of reaching a 1,000 career points.

Sheldon Lady Panther second-year head coach Jacob Well said he's thrilled for McCartney.

"It's a great opportunity to go play anywhere for college basketball," he said. "I think she will thrive at the college level," adding that "confidence in herself and her abilities" will be key to successful collegiate career.

For her prep career, McCartney is averaging 11 points, five rebounds, and three assists per game. Her anticipated college major os biology.