By: Tom Williams | March 2, 2026
Clarksdale, Mississippi — Coahoma County boys basketball head coach Derrick Moore has been named Region 3A Coach of the Year, a well-deserved honor following an outstanding 25-7 season filled with perseverance, resilience, and championship-level leadership.
Moore led his team to an impressive record this year, advancing all the way to the Elite 8 before falling to Thomas E. Edwards Academy Tigers Friday night. Despite the tough ending, the season was one defined by determination and unity.
Rather than focusing on personal recognition, Moore quickly shifted the spotlight to his staff.
“We are all on the same page in everything we do. I trust my staff to the fullest,” Moore said. “I am nothing without them.”
His assistant coaches — Derrick Moore Jr., Latarius O’Neal, and Daryl Moore — played vital roles throughout the season, helping guide the team through both victories and adversity.
Overcoming Major Obstacles
This season tested Coahoma County in ways few teams experience.
The team suffered a devastating blow early in the year when standout senior Caleb Hearns — the Region 3A Defensive Player of the Year — tore his ACL during the first football game of the year. Hearns was expected to be a cornerstone of the Panthers defense.
“Hearns was a very vocal point to our defense. He blocked shots and was our leading rebounder. I hate the kid got hurt his senior year,” Moore shared.
As the postseason approached, adversity struck again. Starting guard Radarius Crawford tore his ACL in the final regular-season game, sidelining him for the entire playoff run.
Despite losing two key players, Moore’s team continued to compete at a high level, showcasing depth, discipline, and heart.
Personal Loss Amid Playoff Push
In addition to battling injuries within the program, Moore also endured personal heartbreak. Just four days before the Elite 8 matchup, he lost his grandmother.
Through it all, Moore remained steady, leading his team with strength and composure during one of the most challenging stretches of his career.
Respect Among Rivals
Moore also extended praise to Thomas E. Edwards head coach Davis, a close friend and respected competitor. The two programs have developed a competitive rivalry in recent years, with Moore’s team eliminating Thomas E. Edwards in last year’s playoffs.
This year, the Tigers returned the favor.
Moore wished Coach Davis and his team the best of luck as they continue their championship pursuit.
A Legendary Career Continues
With 945 career wins combined at Coahoma County High School and Coahoma County Junior High School, Moore’s legacy in Delta basketball is firmly cemented. His longevity, consistency, and commitment to developing young men on and off the court have made him one of the most respected coaches in the region.
Still, Moore remains grounded.
“This award is an honor. My guys played hard all season, and it’s always WE, not ME.”
The Region 3A Coach of the Year recognition reflects not just wins and statistics, but leadership through adversity, loyalty to staff, belief in players, and an unwavering commitment to team.
For Coahoma County, the season may have ended in the Elite 8 — but under Coach Moore’s leadership, the foundation remains strong, and the future looks bright.
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