Maliq McLemore is back and good as new last week, proving that he was missed on the pitch last year after battling injury. A senior, his confidence on the field is undeniable now, as he comes back with a different speed and physicality. A massive playmaker and goal scorer for the Eagles’ offense, he wasted no time showing why he was so dearly missed, turning in a big week with four goals total in just two games! On Monday, Maliq scored two goals in a 4-1 victory over Newaygo, and then chipped in two more goals on Wednesday in an 8-0 victory over Reed City on Wednesday. Both games were CSAA Blue contests and the wins improved the Eagles conference record to a perfect 3-0 and their overall record to 5-2-1. Kent City is looking to repeat as conference champions in 2026.

A two sport athlete at Kent City High School, after the soccer season, Maliq will be making his long awaited return to basketball this winter following two years of injuries preventing him from participating . Based on his stellar comeback to soccer, there is no doubt that his return to the basketball court will be nothing short of amazing. Kent City Boys Soccer Coach, Pedro Sanchez, is excited to have Maliq back in the lineup,  “What’s interesting is that his last goal before his injury was vs Oakridge. Now, his first game back was vs. Oakridge, and he dropped yet another goal on them,” Sanchez said. “It’s great having him back and pretty cool to be able to watch him play alongside his brother Quinton for his last season.”  Maliq and company have a big game this week as our northern rivals, the Grant Tigers come to Ward Memorial Field on Wednesday, September 9 at 6:00 p.m. With identical 3-0 CSAA Blue division records, the winner of this game will be in the driver seat for the conference title. There is no question Maliq is excited to get back on the field vs. the Tigers again — as a matter of fact the entire Eagle Nation is ecstatic to have #12 back on the field!

By Yael Jaramillo