In a significant move reshaping their future, the Reynolds family has finalized plans to unite under one basketball program at the University of Texas at Arlington. After an extensive search and numerous deliberations, Steve Reynolds, along with his three eldest daughters—Mila, Amiyah, and Kira—are set to join the Mavericks women’s basketball team. While Steve is anticipated to take up an assistant coaching role, Mila, Amiyah, and Kira will contribute as players. This transition marks the end of Steve's 11-year tenure as head coach at South Bend Washington High School, during which he led his daughters to notable victories, including the IHSAA Class 3A state championship in 2022.
The decision to relocate was influenced by personal and professional aspirations. For Steve Reynolds, maintaining family unity while pursuing new opportunities was paramount. The opportunity arose when UT-Arlington expressed interest not only in the family's basketball talents but also in their character and potential contributions beyond the sport. Shereka Wright, the Mavericks' head coach, recognized these qualities after thorough evaluations, leading to the family's unanimous choice for this new chapter.
Steve’s daughters have experienced varying degrees of success and setbacks over recent years. Mila and Amiyah, previously at Purdue University, faced injuries that limited their playing time. Meanwhile, Kira, who had committed early to Purdue, opted to explore other options alongside her father and sisters. Their collective journey through the transfer portal culminated in choosing UT-Arlington, where they hope to revitalize their careers and achieve shared goals.
This relocation extends beyond just the immediate family members involved in basketball. Marcy Reynolds, along with younger children Jordan, Aubrey, Steven III, and Tristian, will all adjust to life in Texas. Notably, Steven III, a highly sought-after boys basketball prospect, must now decide between local high schools or prep academies for his senior year. His recruitment process continues amidst offers from prestigious programs like Notre Dame, Indiana, Purdue, and Michigan State.
UT-Arlington enters this partnership on solid footing, having concluded last season with an impressive 18-14 record. Under Coach Wright's leadership, the team demonstrated competitiveness within the Western Athletic Conference and advanced to the WAC Tournament finals. Wright's collegiate background at Purdue further strengthens the connection between past experiences and future ambitions for both parties involved.
As the Reynolds family embarks on this transformative journey, they express gratitude for the lessons learned throughout the decision-making process. From understanding the intricacies of college athletics to appreciating collaborative efforts among diverse stakeholders, this experience underscores the importance of adaptability and perseverance. Moving forward, their focus remains on building a legacy at UT-Arlington that honors their heritage while embracing new challenges ahead.