Houston Red Storm

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"No Excuses": Jaiden Myers Embarks on Tireless Off-Season Campaign to Secure Spot in Houston Red Storm Rotation

HOUSTON, TX — As the Houston Red Storm prepares for its monumental transition into the Maximum Basketball League (MBL), all eyes are on emerging second-year player Jaiden Myers. Following a rookie campaign defined by growth and observation, Myers has spent the current off-season in a relentless pursuit of physical and tactical refinement, signaling his readiness to become a cornerstone of the 2026-2027 rotation.
Myers has been a constant fixture at the team's training facilities, undergoing rigorous daily sessions with acclaimed team trainer Coach Keith Branch. His commitment has not gone unnoticed by the front office, as he has also been working directly with Commissioner/Owner Emmit Welch to align his personal development with the organization's high-performance standards.

Building on the Foundation

Now three years removed from a successful MCL surgery on his right knee, Myers is moving with a level of fluidity and explosive power that hasn't been seen since before his injury. While he earned respect as a defensive asset during his rookie year, Myers is adamant that his second season will showcase a much more complete arsenal.

"Last year was a learning experience, but I’m not using the ‘rookie’ tag as an excuse for anything," said Jaiden Myers. "I know exactly what is at stake and that playing time isn't given here—it’s earned. I’ve pushed myself to be a lock-down defender, but now I’m ready for the whole package. I’m putting in the work every single day because I want to be a factor in every game next season."

Coaching Staff Perspective

The Red Storm coaching staff has taken note of Myers' "first-in, last-out" mentality. His willingness to embrace the grind has set a tone for the younger players on the roster.

"Jaiden has a different look in his eyes this summer," noted Coach Terence Dill. "He’s stopped playing like a kid who is just happy to be on the roster and started playing like a man who wants to run the floor. His defensive instincts are already elite, but the offensive confidence we are seeing now is going to make him very hard to keep off the court."

Coach Myron Crawford added, "The work he’s doing with Coach Branch is paying off in his lateral quickness. Three years post-surgery, you can tell he finally trusts his body 100%. He understands our system, he understands the expectations of this league, and most importantly, he understands that his performance is vital to our success in the MBL."

Looking Ahead to the Black & Red Gala
The emergence of Jaiden Myers will be one of the many storylines celebrated at the upcoming **Black & Red Gala** on **August 15th** at the Hilton Garden Inn. As the organization prepares to debut its new professional facility on Richey Road and officially join the MBL, the development of homegrown talent like Myers remains a top priority.

About the Houston Red Storm

The Houston Red Storm is a premier professional basketball organization entering its 20th anniversary season. Dedicated to professional development and elite competition, the Red Storm will make its debut in the Maximum Basketball League (MBL) for the 2026-2027 season.

Media Contact:
Houston Red Storm Front Office
[email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Houston Lady Red Storm Strengthens Roster with Signing of Meagan Perry; Kiara McElroy and Donnashean Evans Join the Ranks

HOUSTON, TX — The Houston Lady Red Storm professional basketball organization is proud to announce the latest addition to its 2027 roster with the official signing of standout talent Meagan Perry. This strategic acquisition underscores the organization's commitment to building a powerhouse team as they prepare for a landmark season of professional women's basketball in Houston.

Perry brings an elite skill set and veteran composure to the Lady Red Storm. Known for her versatility and high basketball IQ, she is expected to be a cornerstone of the team’s rotation.

"We are incredibly excited to welcome Meagan Perry to the family," said Larry Donnell Leonard II, owner of the Houston Red Storm organization. "Her arrival marks another significant step in our mission to curate a roster that is not only competitive on the national stage but also representative of the excellence and professional standards we uphold."

A Growing Powerhouse

The signing of Perry follows the recent high-profile additions of Kiara McElroy and Donnashean Evans, both of whom have already sparked immense excitement within the Houston sports community.

-Kiara McElroy enters the fold as a dynamic force, recently clarified as a key signee for the women's squad.
-Donnashean Evans brings a level of athleticism and grit that fits perfectly with the Lady Red Storm’s "Iron Man" culture of reliability and toughness.

Building for the Future

The Lady Red Storm front office continues to work tirelessly to build out a deep and talented roster. With the men ready to compete in the Maximum Basketball League (MBL) and debut approaching and the 2026 season kick-off set for October 3rd, the momentum behind the women’s program has never been higher.

Fans and supporters will have the opportunity to celebrate these new signings and the entire organization at the upcoming Black & Red Gala on August 15th at 7 PM. This prestigious event at the Hilton Garden Inn will serve as the official showcase for the new roster and a celebration of the community leaders—including the Humanitarian of the Year nominees—who support the team's mission.

About the Houston Lady Red Storm

The Houston Lady Red Storm is the professional women’s basketball affiliate of the Houston Red Storm organization. Under the leadership of Owner Larry Leonard and General Manager LaQuan Stallworth, the team is dedicated to professional development, community engagement, and championship-caliber competition.

Media Contact:
Houston Red Storm Front Office
[email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Houston Red Storm Bolsters Roster for Inaugural MBL Season with Signing of Standout Guard Jevon Berry

HOUSTON, TX — The Houston Red Storm professional basketball organization is proud to announce the official signing of explosive guard Jevon Berry for the highly anticipated 2026-2027 season. This landmark signing comes as the franchise prepares for its high-profile transition into the Maximum Basketball League (MBL), marking the organization's 20th anniversary year.

Berry joins a Red Storm squad that is currently reloading with elite talent to compete on the national stage. Known for his high basketball IQ and dynamic playmaking, Berry is expected to be a key piece of the rotation alongside the team’s core veterans.

"We are thrilled to welcome Jevon Berry to the Red Storm family," said Larry Leonard, owner of the Houston Red Storm. "As we move into the MBL for the 2026-2027 season, our goal is to bring in players who not only elevate our play on the court but also represent the professional standards of this organization. Jevon fits that mold perfectly."
While the MBL will be crowning its 2025-2026 champion in Atlanta from July 31st to August 2nd, the Red Storm front office has been working tirelessly to secure the pieces necessary for a dominant debut in the 2026-2027 campaign. The addition of Berry signals a clear intent to pursue a world championship in the franchise’s new home.
A Celebration of Excellence: The Black & Red Gala
Fans will have their first opportunity to celebrate the new roster and honor the legends of the past season at the upcoming Black & Red Gala.

Date: August 15th
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Hilton Garden Inn

The gala will be a night of prestige and reflection, featuring the presentation of the season’s most anticipated awards. Highlights of the evening will include the crowning of the Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and the Humanitarian of the Year, which features a special tribute to the life-saving work of domestic violence advocates.

The night will also serve as the official kickoff for the MBL era, where fans and partners can get an inside look at the vision for the upcoming season and the new dual-court professional facility on Richey Road.

About the Houston Red Storm:

The Houston Red Storm is a premier professional basketball organization entering its 20th anniversary season. Dedicated to professional development, community service, and elite competition, the Red Storm will make its debut in the Maximum Basketball League (MBL) for the 2026-2027 season.

Media Contact:
Houston Red Storm Front Office
[email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Houston Red Storm Organization to Honor Yumeki Harmon as "Humanitarian of the Year" Nominee for Transformative Domestic Violence Advocacy

HOUSTON, TX — The Houston Red Storm professional basketball organization is proud to announce the nomination of Yumeki Harmon for the prestigious Humanitarian of the Year award. This honor will be a centerpiece of the Black & Red Gala, held on August 15th at 7 PM at the Hilton Garden Inn.

Harmon, a Domestic Abuse Counselor and Global Ambassador for Domestic Violence, is being recognized for her unwavering eight-year commitment to providing holistic, life-saving resources to survivors and their children.

A Quote from the Owner

"As we celebrate twenty years of Red Storm basketball, we remain committed to honoring those who lead with a spirit of service," said Larry Donnell Leonard II, owner and executive lead of the Houston Red Storm. "Yumeki Harmon’s dedication to rescuing and empowering survivors exemplifies the strength and resilience we value in our community. It is a privilege to highlight her life-changing work as we transition into our inaugural season with the Maximum Basketball League".

A Lifeline in the Palm of Their Hands

A cornerstone of Harmon’s work is the provision of free cell phones to survivors, a critical tool for safety and independence. Her organization covers the first six months of the service bill, ensuring that those fleeing dangerous situations have a secure line to family, legal aid, and emergency services without the burden of immediate financial strain.

The Southern Region Alliance Rescue Team

Beyond digital safety, Harmon leads a specialized Rescue Team covering eight states** across the Southern Region. This team provides the physical and logistical support necessary for mothers and children to "start over" from scratch—assisting with everything from emergency relocation to securing the basic essentials needed to build a new life in a safe environment.

Healing on the Water: The Annual Survivor Retreat

For nearly a decade, Harmon has pioneered a unique form of therapeutic outreach. Every year, a boat is donated to her mission free of charge, allowing her to host survivors for a day of healing and restoration on the water. During these retreats, Harmon brings in inspirational speakers from across the country to "pour into" the women, offering them messages of faith, freedom, and empowerment.

About Yumeki Harmon

Yumeki Harmon is the CEO of Divine Pearls of Royalty and No More Silence Southern Region Alliance. Having personally endured and overcome domestic violence, she has dedicated her life to turning "pain into purpose" through prison ministries, rescue missions, and international advocacy.

Media Contact:
Houston Red Storm Front Office
[email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HOUSTON RED STORM ANNOUNCE HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2026 FINALISTS

HOUSTON, TX – As the Houston Red Storm organization prepares for its milestone 20th anniversary season, leadership is proud to officially unveil the four finalists for the Houston Red Storm Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
These finalists represent three distinct eras of the franchise's history, spanning from the "Dream Team" inaugural years to the modern elite era. The selection committee has identified these individuals not only for their statistical dominance but for their commitment to the "4 Tha Culture" mission that has defined the organization for two decades.

The Class of 2026 Finalists:

#35 Marcus Session (2006-2009): A small forward who defined tenacity on the boards. Session was known for his aggressive style, never hesitating to be a "bully" and a consistent scorer in the post during the franchise's early years.

#3 Keyshane Reed (2006-2009): As a shooting guard, Reed was the youngest and most athletic player on the inaugural rosters. He was a versatile threat who could beat opponents anywhere—off the dribble or by shooting from deep.

#10 Brandon Andrews (2010-2011): Andrews was a true nightmare for opposing defenses. A relentless attacker of the rim, he provided the floor general leadership the Houston Red Storm needed during a pivotal era.

#2 Brandon McElvy (2018-2019): Though short in stature, McElvy played with a huge heart and left everything on the court. He made history as the first point guard in Houston Red Storm history to average 9 assists per game.

Honoring a 20-Year Legacy

"Selecting these four finalists was an arduous process because so many individuals have poured their heart into this jersey over the last 20 years," said Owner Larry Leonard. "From the early days to our current status in the MBL, these men represent the grit and excellence of the Red Storm. We are honored to recognize their contributions as we head into our 2026 anniversary."

Induction and Gala Celebration

The final inductees will be officially honored during the 2nd Annual Black & Red Gala, which serves as a bridge between the organization's historic past and the upcoming 2026-2027 season.

Event Details:
Date: August 15th, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Hilton Garden Inn Houston Energy Corridor
Address: 12245 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77079
Tickets: bit.ly/redstormgala26

About the Houston Red Storm:
Established in 2006, the Houston Red Storm is a premier professional basketball organization entering its 20th year of operation. A proud member of the Maximum Basketball League (MBL), the organization remains dedicated to elite competition and community empowerment across the Greater Houston area.

Media Contact:
Houston Red Storm Communications
Official Website: houstonredstorm.com

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GENERAL MANAGER LAQUAN STALLWORTH LAUNCHES STRATEGIC SEARCH FOR LADY RED STORM HEAD COACH; ANNOUNCES UPCOMING TRYOUT CAMP

HOUSTON, TX – Following her historic appointment as General Manager of the Houston Lady Red Storm, Texas basketball legend LaQuan Stallworth has officially initiated the search for the franchise’s inaugural Head Coach. As the organization gears up for its 2027 professional debut, Stallworth emphasized that selecting the right sideline leader is the most critical step in establishing the team’s identity.

The Search for a Strategic Leader

For Stallworth, the criteria for the Lady Red Storm’s first coach goes beyond X’s and O’s. She is seeking a candidate who can translate the "4 Tha Culture" mission into a disciplined, winning product on the court. "Picking the right coach for our inaugural season is the key to everything we are building," said LaQuan Stallworth. "We aren't just looking for someone to draw up plays; we are looking for a culture-builder who understands accountability and the weight of representing Houston. This first hire will set the tone for the next decade of Lady Red Storm basketball."

An Aggressive Identity

While the coaching search is underway, Stallworth’s vision for the team’s style of play is already set in stone. Mirroring her own Hall of Fame career as a defensive powerhouse, she expects the Lady Red Storm to be one of the most aggressive teams in professional basketball.

"Fans should expect a team that never lets up," Stallworth noted. "We are going to be aggressive on both ends of the floor—suffocating defense, high-speed transitions, and a relentless work ethic. Our players will be conditioned to outwork and out-hustle every opponent. If you aren't ready to compete at that level of intensity, you aren't ready for this jersey."

Tryout Camp: April 25th

The search for talent to execute this aggressive vision begins on the court. Stallworth expressed high enthusiasm for the upcoming **Lady Red Storm Tryout Camp**, scheduled for **April 25th**.
The front office reports a massive influx of inquiries from elite athletes across the country, indicating a high-caliber turnout.

"The phone hasn't stopped ringing," said Stallworth. "The volume of inquiries we are receiving tells me that players want to be part of what we’re doing in Houston. I’m looking forward to April 25th to see who has that 'Red Storm' grit. We are looking for players who are hungry to make history."

Building Toward 2027

With the signing of veteran guard Donnashean Evans and playmaker Kiara McElroy, the roster foundation is already taking shape. Stallworth, alongside Owner Larry Leonard, continues to build the infrastructure necessary for a championship-caliber debut in 2027.

About the Houston Lady Red Storm:

The Houston Lady Red Storm is a professional women’s basketball organization debuting in 2027. Under the leadership of GM LaQuan Stallworth, the franchise is committed to elite athletic performance, disciplined culture, and community inspiration.

Media Contact:
Houston Lady Red Storm Communications
Official Website: houstonredstorm.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HOUSTON LADY RED STORM ANNOUNCE ROSTER AND FRONT OFFICE MILESTONES FOR 2027 INAUGURAL SEASON

HOUSTON, TX – The Houston Lady Red Storm organization continues to accelerate its preparations for professional competition in 2027. Following the groundbreaking news of a potential WNBA return to the city, the Lady Red Storm are ensuring that Houston’s basketball landscape is fortified with elite local talent and Hall of Fame leadership.

The Backcourt Foundation: Kiara McElroy Signs
The organization is proud to announce the signing of Kiara McElroy, a dynamic 5'6" guard known for her explosive speed and court vision. McElroy joins veteran guard Donnashean "Dae Dae" Evans for the 2027 campaign. Her addition signals the team's commitment to a high-intensity, "4 Tha Culture" style of play that emphasizes defensive pressure and fast-paced transition offense.

Legendary Leadership: LaQuan Stallworth Named General Manager

In the most significant front-office move to date, the Houston Lady Red Storm have officially named basketball icon LaQuan Stallworth as General Manager. Stallworth is a familiar name within the organization, having previously served as the Head Coach and GM for the Houston Red Storm from 2016 to 2020.

A titan of Texas basketball, Stallworth’s resume is among the most decorated in the history of the sport. Her accolades include:

* Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame (Class of 2026)
* Texas HS Basketball Hall of Fame (Class of 2025)
* Top 100 Player All-Time in Texas History
* NCAA National Runner-Up and 2x Final Four Participant
* Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year
* Professional Leading Scorer in Israel (37.8 PPG)

Stallworth’s return to the organization brings a standard of excellence that spans from her days as a High School All-American and State Champion to her success on the international professional stage. As GM, she will oversee roster construction, scouting, and the implementation of a professional infrastructure that mirrors her own Hall of Fame career.

"Talent matters, but culture sustains it. The job isn’t to chase moments, it’s to build something that lasts," said LaQuan Stallworth. "The standard is clear: build with purpose, lead with accountability, and create a culture that players are proud to represent. Every decision should reflect long-term vision, discipline, and respect for the name on the jersey. We’re not here to chase moments, we’re here to build something that lasts."

Black & Red Gala Reminder
The community will have the opportunity to celebrate these historic appointments at the 2nd Annual Black & Red Gala, now moved to August 15th, 2026.
* Time: 7:00 PM
* Location: Hilton Garden Inn Houston Energy Corridor
* Tickets: bit.ly/redstormgala26

About the Houston Lady Red Storm:
The Houston Lady Red Storm is a professional women’s basketball organization set to debut in 2027. Led by Hall of Fame talent and executive leadership, the franchise is dedicated to athletic excellence and community empowerment under the "4 Tha Culture" banner.

Media Contact:
Houston Red Storm Communications
Official Website: houstonredstorm.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

​"DEFENSE IS A MINDSET": FIRST LADY RED STORM SIGNING DONNASHEAN EVANS OPENS UP ABOUT HOUSTON RETURN AND 2027 VISION

​HOUSTON, TX – Following the historic announcement of the Houston Lady Red Storm’s formation, the franchise’s inaugural signing, veteran guard Donnashean Evans, sat down to discuss her homecoming and the responsibility of building a professional culture from the ground up.
​Evans, a former standout at Bellaire High School and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, returns to Houston with a reputation for elite defensive tenacity and veteran leadership. As the foundational piece of the 2027 roster, Evans is already focused on the legacy she intends to leave in the wards and neighborhoods that shaped her.

​The Interview: A Conversation with Donnashean "Dae Dae" Evans

​1. On the Full-Circle Moment of Returning to Houston:

"It honestly means a lot to me. Texas is home, and Houston played a big role in shaping who I am as a player and a person. Playing at Bellaire taught me pride and work ethic, and my time in the Southland Conference helped me grow my game even more. So being able to come back home and be the very first signing for the Houston Lady Red Storm is truly special. It feels like everything came full circle."

​2. On Establishing a Defensive Identity:

"I feel like defense is really about mindset and effort. That’s something I’ve always taken pride in & I strongly believe defense wins games. From Day 1, I just want to bring that same energy and intensity every time I step on the floor. If I can set that tone defensively, I feel like it’ll spread through the team and help build the identity we want for this franchise."

​3. On the Responsibility of Being the "First Piece":

"To be the first player called is a real honor, but it also comes with responsibility. My goal is to lead by example every day with my work ethic, my energy, and the way I compete. As we build this roster for 2027, I want players who are hungry, who love the game, and who are ready to buy into something bigger than themselves."

​4. On Transitioning to the Professional Level:

"One of the biggest things I’ve been focused on is tightening up my overall efficiency—especially my shooting consistency and decision-making in the pick-and-roll. Going into the professional level, I know the game gets faster and the margin for error gets smaller. I’ve really been working on making quicker reads and improving my shot off the catch and off the dribble."

​5. On Building a Culture for the Next Generation:

"For me, it’s bigger than basketball. Being from Houston and understanding places like Alief and the Third Ward, I know a lot of young girls grow up needing someone they can actually see and relate to. My legacy, I hope, is showing them that where you come from doesn’t limit where you can go. I want them to see someone who represents hard work, discipline, and pride in our city every time I step on the court."

​A MESSAGE FROM LEADERSHIP

Owner Larry Leonard, who identified Evans as a priority signing years ago after seeing her perform at a professional combine, emphasized that her arrival is just the beginning of a rigorous front-office build-out. The organization is currently in the process of vetting three different professional leagues with a final decision expected by May 1st.

​"Donnashean represents the exact 'toughness' we want the Lady Red Storm to be known for," Leonard stated. "As we look to hire our coaching staff and GM, having a leader like her already in the locker room gives us a massive head start on our 2027 goals."
​
​About the Houston Lady Red Storm:
The Houston Lady Red Storm is a professional women’s basketball organization debuting in 2027. Dedicated to the "4 Tha Culture" mission, the franchise provides a premier platform for elite athletes while fostering community development and inspiration across the Greater Houston area.

​Media Contact:
Houston Lady Red Storm Communications
Official Website: houstonredstorm.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WNBA RETURNS TO HOUSTON: CONNECTICUT SUN SOLD TO FERTITTA FAMILY; COMETS BRAND SET FOR 2027 RELAUNCH

HOUSTON, TX – In a monumental shift for the professional sports landscape, sources have confirmed to ESPN that the Connecticut Sun has been sold to the Fertitta family for a reported $300 million. This landmark deal officially marks the return of the WNBA to Houston, reviving the legendary Houston Comets brand for a new generation of fans.

The franchise will play its final season in Connecticut through 2026 before relocating to Houston for the 2027 season. The timing of the WNBA's return creates a historic synergy for women's basketball in the city, aligning perfectly with the 2027 inaugural launch of the Houston Lady Red Storm.

A NEW ERA FOR HOUSTON BASKETBALL

The simultaneous arrival of a WNBA franchise and the formation of the Houston Lady Red Storm establishes the city as a global epicenter for women’s professional hoops. Owner Larry Leonard, who recently announced the Lady Red Storm’s commitment to a 2027 debut, expressed his enthusiasm for the expanded basketball landscape.

"The Comets are back, and the energy in this city is at an all-time high," said Larry Leonard. "Bringing the Lady Red Storm into this environment alongside a WNBA titan like the Fertitta family is exactly what the fans deserve. We are building something special here, and having multiple platforms for these elite athletes to showcase their talent only strengthens our '4 Tha Culture' mission".

VOICES FROM THE COURT AND THE SIDELINE

Donnashean "Dae Dae" Evans, the veteran guard and first official signing of the Lady Red Storm, shared her excitement about the news. "The atmosphere in Houston is about to be legendary," Evans said. "Knowing that the WNBA is returning at the same time we are gearing up for 2027 is a dream for any player. It pushes us all to a higher level of excellence".

Head Coach Terence Dill, who will play an integral role in the Lady Red Storm’s front-office development, is already looking toward the future. "This is a win for the entire basketball community," Dill remarked. "As we begin the process of choosing the next General Manager for the Lady Red Storm, we are looking for leaders who can navigate this new, high-intensity market. The bar has been raised".

GALA DATE CHANGE ANNOUNCED

Due to the evolving sports schedule and the magnitude of recent announcements, the organization has officially updated the date for the highly anticipated 2nd Annual Black & Red Gala.

* New Date: August 15th, 2026
* Time: 7:00 PM
* Location: Hilton Garden Inn Houston Energy Corridor
* Address: 12245 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77079
* Tickets: bit.ly/redstormgala26
The Gala will now serve as a dual celebration of the 19th season's legacy and a kickoff for the 2027 dual-franchise push.

Media Contact:
Houston Lady Red Storm Communications
Official Website: houstonredstorm.com