By Matt Browning

Derby basketball player Destiny Smith has lofty goals for herself for the 2023-2024 season.

But the first team all-league selection has proven time and time again that she has the game to fulfill expectations.

“I want to average 15 points per game, to be the best leader on and off the court for my team, to hit 1,000 points, to be a stronger defensive player than last year, and to be nominated for Kansas Girls Player of the Year and a McDonald’s All-American,” Smith said. “For my last high school season, I want to leave my name in the record books at Derby as the three-point leader. I am currently 20 three pointers away from breaking the girls record. I want to be the best and prepare myself for my next endeavor.”

Smith has proven herself to be a prolific three-point shooter, but the next phase to her offensive game is be better inside the arc.

“I really want to utilize my midrange game and attack the basket more than previous seasons,” Smith said. “With that goal in mind all my trainers have tailored workouts to help me expand my knowledge on shot selection and the different angles to attack opposing defenders.”

The Panthers return four starters from last season’s team that made the 6A Tournament.

“I am excited about expanding on the bond my teammates and I have, as we have four returning starters,” Smith said. “Getting back to the state tournament and going out my senior year as state champ.”