WHAT’S YOUR WHY? Landen O’Neal Malone | Forward | Sparkman High School

Some journeys are loud. Others are built quietly, rep by rep, season by season.

Landen O’Neal Malone’s path has been defined by discipline, resilience, and a steady commitment to growth, shaped long before the lights ever came on.

Raised in Harvest

Growing up in Harvest, Alabama, Landen was surrounded by community. The connections, culture, and people he was raised around helped mold not just the player he is today but the person.

That foundation mattered, especially early.

Where It All Began

Landen first picked up a basketball around six years old, inspired by his uncle Pat, who passed away when Landen was young. Though his uncle isn’t here to see the journey unfold, his influence remains part of the reason Landen continues to play.

Why He Competes

At the core, Landen’s “why” is simple and powerful.

It’s for the love of the game, and for the opportunity to do what he loves at the collegiate level while building a future beyond basketball.

His biggest inspiration is his father, whose example pushed Landen to raise his standard and believe that the next level is earned, not given.

Over time, his “why” evolved into something deeper: A desire to work harder, compete longer, and prove he belongs at the next stage.

Legacy Over Spotlight

When Landen thinks about legacy, he doesn’t think about attention or individual praise.

“I want to leave a legacy that makes younger players work harder and show sportsmanship no matter the score.”

That mindset reflects how he approaches both competition and leadership.

The Work No One Sees

Landen’s discipline shows up daily.

Every morning and every night:

• 150 push-ups

• Plyometric workouts three days a week

  
  

Before games, he locks in music on, body stretched, mind focused.

One unique pregame habit?

150 pogo jumps before every game. A small ritual, but one that reflects preparation and intent.

Recovery is equally intentional:

• Stretching before and after workouts

• Ice baths once a month

  
  

Growth Through Adversity

Middle school was a turning point.

Landen didn’t play much, and the lack of minutes tested his confidence. Doubt crept in but instead of walking away, he leaned in.

When the season ended, he went straight to work.

He had honest conversations with his coach, listened to criticism, and committed himself to fixing what needed fixing.

That stretch taught him a lesson he still carries: Growth starts when you stop avoiding the hard truths.

Faith & Mental Discipline

Faith plays a central role in Landen’s journey.

“None of this would be possible without my faith in the man above.”

Mental discipline matters just as much, especially when it comes to staying away from distractions and choosing long-term purpose over short-term comfort.

Leadership & Identity

Teammates would describe Landen as hardworking and resilient.

To him, leadership means: Someone speaks and it’s received as constructive criticism because everyone knows it’s for a shared goal.

Under pressure, his focus stays forward: How do I fight through this moment and come out better on the other side?

Looking Ahead

Short-term goals:

• Win a Blue Map

• Be selected to the North–South All-Star Game

  
  

Long-term goals:

• Play basketball at the next level

• Earn his degree

• Eventually play professionally

  
  

If sports weren’t the path, Landen would still be chasing growth, working toward piloting hours and another demanding career.

Beyond basketball, his impact is clear: He wants to help put Sparkman back on the map, to make it a place athletes want to build, not leave.

Rapid Fire

• Favorite hype song: Games of War – NBA YoungBoy

• Favorite athletes: Paul George, Jalen Green

• Pre-game meal: Grilled chicken, banana, and rice

• Favorite quote: “I’m going to use all my tools, my God-given ability, and make the best life I can with it.”

  – LeBron James

• One word that describes him: Motivated

  
  

Landen O’Neal Malone isn’t chasing shortcuts. He’s chasing progress, built on faith, discipline, and the belief that consistent work always closes the gap.

That’s his why.