By Angela Brunk
Wichita South senior Maliek Saunders is ready to make his final high school basketball season his best yet. A dynamic point guard and shooting guard, Saunders has grown into a confident leader who’s determined to guide the Titans to success on and off the court.
“My goal for myself is to become a better leader on and off the floor,” Saunders said. “One team goal I have is to make a run to state.” With that mindset, he’s focused not only on improving his own game but also on setting the tone for his teammates.
This season, Saunders is especially excited for the challenge of facing two of the state’s top programs. “I’m looking forward to playing Heights and Kapaun,” he said. “Those are the top schools with talent.” Saunders and the Titans are ready for the competition this season.
During the offseason, Saunders dedicated himself to improving key aspects of his game. “I worked on my shooting and off-ball shooting,” he said. That focus should make him an even greater scoring threat this year.
Reflecting on last season, Saunders takes pride in how he stepped up when his team needed him most. “I’m most proud of how I rebounded and scored the ball,” he said. “Going into the season last year, I didn’t expect to take on a scoring role. I was just playing my hardest to rebound and score.”
Looking ahead, Saunders is keeping his options open after graduation. He hopes to play college basketball but is also considering a career in welding, a field that combines hard work and precision, qualities he already shows on the court.
