From Deep Range to Deep Impact: Grand Rapids Christian’s Sharpshooter Magnolia Cumming Leaves Her Mark
At Grand Rapids Christian High School, consistency from beyond the arc became a signature and few embodied it better than senior shooting guard Magnolia 'Mags' Cumming.
The Senior All-Ok White Shooting gaurd garnered over 100 career three-pointers on an efficient 38% clip, including a six-three performance in a single game, she built her reputation as one of the most reliable 3-Point shooters in the area. Averaging 12.3 points per game, her scoring presence was undeniable but her senior season told a deeper story than numbers alone. On senior night, she reached a milestone that symbolized years of work. Her100th career three, a school record!
“That was definitely one of my favorite memories,” she said. “But this season really defined my game by how I interacted with my teammates and coaches off the court.”
That growth didn’t come easily. Early in the season, Mags faced adversity, undergoing a procedure to remove hardware from her foot, forcing her to step away from the court temporarily. Instead of falling behind, she leaned into a different role.
“It taught me how to become a better leader, teammate, and friend,” she explained. “Cheering hard for my teammates and helping them become the best versions of themselves.”
That shift in mindset became just as impactful as her shooting. One of her favorite moments wasn’t about her own performance, but her team’s success, specifically a rivalry win where the Eagles stepped up in a big way.
“Seeing two of my teammates play amazing in that game meant so much,” she said. “It was incredible to watch.”
Behind the scenes, her success has been anything but accidental.
“I practice a lot,” Mags said. “Multiple trainings a day, strength, speed, and basketball. I have off days, but the work I’ve put in is why I’ve been able to accomplish my goals.”
That dedication will now take her to the next level at Colorado Christian University, where she’ll continue both her academic and athletic career. Her decision came down to more than basketball.
“The coaches and team made me feel so welcome,” she said. “Coach Ratliff is incredible, and I’m excited to learn under her. Plus, CCU has a strong physical therapy program, which is what I plan to study.”
Looking ahead, her goals remain grounded.
“Control the controllables,” she said. “Work hard, focus on details, and everything else will fall into place. I want to keep developing and help win games. Whatever that role looks like.”
Mags graduates from Grand Rapids Christian High School this year, known for her skills on the court but her lasting impact came from the way she grew into a leader when it mattered most.
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