The Bellaire Cardinals girls’ varsity basketball team is gearing up for a defining 2024-25 season, with their hopes set on clinching the 6A Region III District 18 title.
At the heart of their aspirations is senior standout Tyniah Smith, a 6-foot-2 power forward whose leadership, experience, and on-court dominance could drive the team’s success.
“Tyniah brings a lot to our team,” said head girls basketball coach Willie Patrick. “I don’t think anyone in the district can stop her when she plays down low.”
Smith, the only senior on this year’s roster, is a familiar face for the Cardinals. A three-year varsity letter winner, she has seen the program’s highs and lows, making her the team’s natural leader and captain.
Her journey hasn’t been without challenges. Smith sat out her sophomore season to focus on academics, prioritizing her College Algebra coursework while taking a step back due to disagreements with the coaching style at the time. However, her return as a junior last season was nothing short of spectacular. According to Max Preps, Smith averaged 16.8 points while grabbing 8.5 rebounds per game. This output earned her first-team all-district honors in the ultra-competitive 6A Region III District 18.
“Being named First-Team All-District just showed how much work I put in over the off-season,” said Smith.
Smith aims to repeat that success this season and elevate her team to new heights.
“As the only senior, I know the team looks to me to set the tone,” said Smith. “Sometimes it becomes overwhelming for me because I’m not used to people coming to me for answers, but I’m ready to step up.”
Smith’s leadership is not confined to words. It radiates through her play.
Known for her high-energy performances and dominance in the paint, she’s drawn comparisons to Alissa Pili of the Minnesota Lynx. Her ability to control the interior was displayed in the Cardinals’ recent blowout victory over rival Houston Westside, where Smith poured in 17 points to propel Bellaire to a commanding 62-43 win.
“I really enjoy watching Alissa Pili play because we both play the forward position, and I like how she shoots the ball as well,” said Smith. “The next thing I’ll be working on to continue improving my game is becoming more comfortable and strong with my left hand.”
The Cardinals are looking to rebound after losing their star point guard, who transferred to CE King following the 2023-24 season. This transition has thrust Smith into an even larger role, one she embraces wholeheartedly. Her towering presence and knack for making big plays in the paint will be critical as Bellaire seeks to challenge the district’s top teams and make a deep playoff push.
While Smith focuses on leading her team this season, the question of her future looms large. Fans and recruiters alike are eager to know where she plans to play at the collegiate level, but the senior is keeping her cards close to her chest for now.
“I haven’t decided where I’d like to play, I’m just hoping for a good environment with a school that has a great nursing program or a path to becoming an ultrasound tech,” said Smith.
With Smith at the helm, the Bellaire Cardinals are primed to make noise in 6A Region III District 18. If her leadership and skill set are any indication, this could be the season where the Cardinals soar to new heights.
About Tyniah Smith:
Class: 2025
IG: @j.aaanaeee
Twitter: @STyniah
Position: Power forward
Height & weight: 5-feet-9, 162 pounds
Favorite artist: Rod Wave
Status: Uncommitted
Favorite subject: Aquatic Science
Shout-outs: Malcolm Glover, Nakazi Glover, Coach Williams, Coach Sam
