NATCHEZ — Recent Natchez High School graduate Taylor Argue has signed to play collegiate basketball with Southwest Tennessee Community College.

Argue, who was a member of the Mississippi Bobcats AAU team this summer, drew the attention of coaches at a tournament in New Orleans.

“I’m really proud of her,” said Fay Minor, who coached Argue and the Bobcats. “She was one of our key players. In the tournament she caught a couple of eyes, and Andrea Martre out of Southwest in Memphis actually talked to me about her and asked if we could get her up there. She went, and a couple days later signed.”

Argue was also a key role player for the Natchez High Lady Bulldogs, who finished the season 24-1 and captured their second straight MHSAA Class 5A state championship.

Minor said Argue was one of those players she knew could play at the next level, but wasn’t getting the looks she wanted.

“During AAU she didn’t have any offers,” Minor said. “I really wanted it for her. She had some knee surgeries and I think that played a factor, but she wanted it. I’m excited, she’s excited and her family is excited.”

Argue said she knew the injuries weren’t going to slow her down.

“I knew I was going to keep playing after my injuries,” she said. “I didn’t have any concern. I wasn’t going to stop playing basketball.”

Minor said Argue’s game was exactly what Southwest was looking for.

“They were looking for a shooter and someone that could play in the post, and Taylor can do that,” Minor said. “She has a great deal of potential.”

Martre said Argue’s versatility was the main reason behind extending the scholarship offer.

“She was able to score in various ways,” Martre said. “She can shoot the three, get to the basket and rebound well. She does things that fit what we are trying to accomplish. She is a good piece to the puzzle.”

Minor said the summer helped Argue’s mindset as far as her health goes.

“She realized now playing with the AAU team, she doesn’t have to be afraid,” Minor said. “She is good to go. She is a really dedicated and mature player. She really wanted to get a scholarship to get the chance to play the game she loves.”

Martre said she wasn’t worried about Argue’s past injuries.

“I try not to hold that against a kid,” she said. “My daughter tore both ACL’s and was given an opportunity, so I try not to hold that against them. We discussed trying to get her legs stronger on a daily basis to prevent any possible knee injuries.”

Ultimately, Martre sees Argue as someone who can make a big impact at the next level.

“With her being so versatile, the sky is the limit,” she said. “She can pretty much be a top D-1 player once she finishes two years.”

Argue has the same outlook.

“First of all, I just want to get my academics out of the way,” she said. “Then, as far as sports, I want to help the team, play hard and practice hard and then go further to a good university and play there.”