Stephenville, Texas, November 27, 2025
Tarleton State Women’s Basketball has secured two talented recruits from Houston, Kendall Ford and Alayna Yates, set to enhance the team for the upcoming season. Both players bring impressive athletic backgrounds and remarkable skills to the roster. Ford, a standout guard with over 1,000 career points, and Yates, a forward known for her rebounding abilities, are expected to significantly contribute to the team’s success. Head coach Bill Brock expressed optimism about how these recruits will elevate the team’s performance, showcasing the expanding talent pool from Houston.
Tarleton State Signs Top Houston Basketball Recruits for 2026-27
Stephenville, Texas – Tarleton State Women’s Basketball has secured two standout players from Houston, Kendall Ford and Alayna Yates, who will bolster the team as they join as freshmen for the 2026-27 season. Both athletes come from exceptional backgrounds and are anticipated to improve the roster’s athleticism and depth significantly.
Kendall Ford, a versatile 5-foot-8-inch guard from Glenda Dawson High School, has made an impressive mark in high school basketball, surpassing 1,000 career points and gaining recognition as a three-time All-District player. With accolades that include MVP and Defensive Player of the Year, Ford’s prowess is also seen in her nearly 1,000 career rebounds. She has been a crucial team leader for the past three years under head coach Gary Douglas and continues to excel with the Fam Hoops 3SSB 17U basketball club. Meanwhile, Alayna Yates, a 6-foot-1-inch forward from Legacy The School of Sport Sciences, has created a name for herself through strong rebounding skills and competitive spirit despite starting her basketball journey later than most at age 13.
Kendall Ford: Key Achievements
Kendall Ford has demonstrated her scoring ability alongside her defensive expertise throughout her high school career. As a captain for three years, her leadership complements her scoring, marked by an impressive MVP award and nearly 1,000 rebounds. Ford’s accomplishments position her as a strong asset for the Tarleton State team.
Alayna Yates: Rising Star
Alayna Yates has showcased her trajectory to success by contributing to her team’s two state championships and earning All-State First Team honors. Yates’s standout performance includes setting a school record with 25 rebounds in one game, underscoring her skills as a dominant presence on the court. Her ranking among the top 100 prospects in Texas, specifically No. 51 by Prep Girls Hoops, adds to her impressive profile as she prepares for college basketball.
Head Coach’s Perspective
Head coach Bill Brock has voiced his enthusiasm regarding the new recruits. He identifies both players as capable of elevating the team’s overall toughness and brings outstanding athleticism that can create additional scoring opportunities. Brock notes that Yates’s rebounding will significantly benefit the team, while Ford’s versatility will enhance the guard position.
Impact on Houston’s Athletic Scene
The addition of Ford and Yates to Tarleton State Women’s Basketball reflects the growing athletic talent emerging from Houston, TX. As basketball programs continue to develop and showcase players capable of impacting college athletics, the synergy between high school and collegiate levels plays a vital role in fostering local resources and talent. Furthermore, these recruits highlight the strength of community support for youth sports, ultimately cultivating a competitive environment for aspiring athletes.
Preparing for the Future
With Ford and Yates slated to join the Texan roster, Tarleton State’s coaching staff is keen on integrating their unique traits into the team’s strategies for success. The anticipation of their contributions only heightens interest among fans as they look forward to a promising upcoming season. In the meantime, Tarleton State Women’s Basketball will take to the court against Mississippi Valley State on December 2 at 7 p.m., marking the beginning of a competitive season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who are the new recruits for Tarleton State Women’s Basketball?
Kendall Ford, a 5-foot-8-inch guard from Glenda Dawson High School, and Alayna Yates, a 6-foot-1-inch forward from Legacy The School of Sport Sciences, have signed with Tarleton State Women’s Basketball for the 2026-27 season.
What are Kendall Ford’s achievements in high school basketball?
Kendall Ford has scored over 1,000 points, earned MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Newcomer of the Year honors, and is a three-time All-District First Team honoree. She has nearly 1,000 career rebounds entering her senior season.
What are Alayna Yates’ accomplishments in high school basketball?
Alayna Yates has helped her team to two state championships, earned All-State First Team honors, and set a school record with 25 rebounds in a single game. She is ranked No. 51 in Texas by Prep Girls Hoops and No. 71 by Jason Key (Premier Basketball/ESPN).
When does Tarleton State Women’s Basketball play their next game?
Tarleton State Women’s Basketball will play their next game on December 2 at 7 p.m. against Mississippi Valley State.
Key Features of the New Recruits
| Feature | Kendall Ford | Alayna Yates |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 5’8″ | 6’1″ |
| Position | Guard | Forward |
| High School | Glenda Dawson High School | Legacy The School of Sport Sciences |
| Notable Achievements | Over 1,000 points scored, three-time All-District First Team, nearly 1,000 career rebounds | Two state championships, All-State First Team honors, 25 rebounds in a single game |
| National Ranking | Not specified | Ranked No. 51 in Texas by Prep Girls Hoops, No. 71 by Jason Key (Premier Basketball/ESPN) |
| Club Team | Fam Hoops 3SSB 17U | Fam Elite |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
