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Alexander girls' basketball coach Dallas Smith isn't just talking about team chemistry. For the 
Cougars, who claimed their first region title in 33 seasons and reached the Sweet 16 last season, it's the foundation of everything they do.
“Our program prides itself on being a true ‘Sisterhood,’ built on accountability, effort, and energy both on and off the court,” Smith said. “We emphasize controlling the controllables and competing with passion every day. The goal is to defend our region championship and make a deep run in the state tournament.”
That sisterhood returns largely intact, with five key players back from last year's historic run.
Junior power forward Nimah Ibidunni was named the Region 5 Player of the Year. The Atlanta Tipoff Club named her to the 2025-26 Atlanta All-Metro High School Boys & Girls Preseason Watch List.
“Nimah is poised for another standout season and will be a key force on both ends of the floor,” Smith said of Ibidunni, who is averaging 23.2 points and 10.2 rebounds a game.
The Cougars have four other key returners in senior guards Isabella “Bella” Italiano, Mekiya Hinton and Jayden Allen and sophomore guard Jaida Stamper.
Smith calls Italiano the engine of the offense, pointing out that her “ability to control the pace of
the game makes her a crucial part of our success.”
Hinton is the team’s vocal leader, Smith said, noting her “energy and communication are invaluable.”
Allen is a sharpshooter, and Smith said she expects her to have a breakout senior campaign.
Stamper is a skilled facilitator who can score at all three levels, Smith said, and she “brings composure and versatility to our backcourt.”
Smith also points to newcomer Oddyssey Murray, a senior forward/wing and "talented transfer with a natural feel for the game," who impacts both sides of the floor and adds depth and athleticism to Alexander's lineup.
Alexander is 10-4 overall and 3-1 in Region 5-AAAAA play headed into tonight's matchup with Lithia Springs.