FSPS Students Honored with Prep Rally Sports Club Winter Awards in Basketball

Fort Smith Public Schools is proud to celebrate two outstanding student-athletes recognized by the Prep Rally Sports Club for their achievements during the 2024 winter basketball season.

Northside Lady Bears Senior Erianna Gooden, the 6A State Championship Game MVP, was named the River Valley Prep Ralley Girls Player of the Year for her leadership and exceptional performance on the court. "There have been so many great players at Northside, so I'm blown away to be the all-time scorer. This team is truly like a family. We wanted to bring home the state championship, and that's what we did," said Gooden. 

Joining her is Derek Shepard from Northside, who scored over 1,000 high school career points. Shepard's coach, Cody Wilmath, says, "Derek is the true representation of The Man in The Arena; he showed up every day and worked to be better for himself and his team. He is a testament to what Northside Basketball represents, and our staff couldn't be happier with his individual success this year. We look forward to watching him grow as an athlete and young man!"

These student-athletes exemplify the hard work and dedication that define FSPS athletics. Congratulations to our Prep Rally Sports Club award recipients on this well-deserved recognition!