By: Tom Williams and MDA Staff Writer | January 30, 2026
Clarksdale, Miss. — The CCJHS girls basketball team wrapped up an outstanding season marked by grit, growth, and championship-level play, finishing with a 15–3 overall record, a DVC Championship, and an impressive run in the Middle School State Tournament.
The Lady Panthers postseason journey came to a hard-fought conclusion in the state tournament after an overtime loss to Batesville, but not before the team left a lasting impression across the Delta with its resilience and depth.
At the center of the program’s success was Coahoma County Junior High School Head Coach Jonnetta Robinson Williams, who was named DVC Coach of the Year following the championship season.
“It truly is a blessing to be named Coach of the Year,” Williams said. “The girls worked hard all summer and throughout the season to be champions. I first want to thank God, who is the head of my life—without Him, none of this would be possible.”
Williams also credited her coaching staff and support system for the team’s success, thanking Coach Tim Williams, Coach Eddie Taylor, and Coach Cartavian Lakes, along with her husband and team statistician, Thomas Williams, for his detailed scouting reports and on-court insights. She also acknowledged the Coahoma County School District Elementary Basketball League for developing young talent and laying the foundation for the team’s future.
“We have a promising group of seventh graders who will be special next year,” Williams added.
Leading the charge on the court was seventh grader Chanyia Norwood, the team’s leading scorer and DVC MVP, who poured in 27 points in a standout performance and added 19 points in the first round of the Middle School State Tournament.
Another seventh grader, Jakiyah Brassell, anchored the team on the boards, leading CCJHS in rebounds throughout the season and setting a tournament record with 19 rebounds in the second round of the state tournament.
Eighth grader Malyia Hand delivered one of the season’s most memorable moments, drilling a game-tying three-pointer to force overtime in the second round of the state tournament—an emphatic display of poise under pressure.
Coach Williams emphasized that the team’s success was a collective effort.
“All of my players—from 1 through 12—helped contribute this season,” she said. “I’m so proud of my girls.”
With a championship banner, individual honors, and a strong core returning, the CCJHS girls basketball program heads into the offseason with momentum and high expectations for what lies ahead.
Photo and Info Credit: Tom Williams
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