Justyce Malone, a freshman at Prosper Richland, has been selected as the 4A Division I Newcomer of the Year. The honor recognizes her performance during her debut season on the high school softball diamond. Prosper is located approximately 11 miles west of McKinney.
Malone contributed significantly to a Richland lineup that averaged 9.6 runs per game. She recorded 70 hits, a total that placed second among all players in Class 4A. Her batting average for the season stood at .476.
The freshman also generated 21 extra-base hits, which included 11 doubles and nine triples. Her offensive production extended to 44 runs batted in and 59 runs scored. Additionally, she stole 28 bases throughout the campaign.
Her consistency at the plate was notable, as she recorded at least three hits in 10 games compared to seven games with zero hits. Malone continued her production through the end of the season, contributing two hits in the Class 4A Division I state championship game against Bullard. Those hits accounted for all of Richland’s offense in that specific contest.
The Lady Raiders entered the season with several starters who possessed prior varsity experience. The team also benefited from the development of a group of underclassmen, with Malone emerging as a key figure among them. Her performance earned her a spot on the 4A Division I all-tournament team alongside the Newcomer of the Year award.
