By: Tom Williams | June 5, 2026
CLARKSDALE, Miss. — A new era of basketball has arrived at Lee Academy as the home of the Colts welcomes Coach D.J. Clark as the school’s first African American basketball coach.
Clark will serve in multiple leadership roles at Lee Academy, including Head Junior High Boys Basketball Coach, Varsity Girls Basketball Coach, and Varsity Boys Basketball Coach. In addition to his coaching responsibilities, he will also teach Health and Physical Education.
The hiring marks a historic moment for the school and brings an accomplished coach, educator, and mentor to the Lee Academy family.
Clark earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from Mississippi University for Women and a master’s degree in sports administration from Arkansas State University. His playing career includes collegiate basketball at both Mississippi University for Women and Blue Mountain Christian University before continuing professionally in Portugal with U.D. Oliveirense of the Pro-Liga.
Before arriving at Lee Academy, Clark gained valuable coaching experience at the junior college and high school levels. He previously served as head coach at J.Z. George High School, where he helped transform both the boys’ and girls’ basketball programs and led them to playoff appearances.
“I learned a lot at the junior college level, and I’m grateful for that experience because it made me a better coach on and off the court,” Clark said. “When the opportunity at Lee Academy became available, it was a no-brainer. I’m blessed to be able to guide young men and women in life and through the game of basketball.”
Clark believes Lee Academy possesses tremendous potential and a strong foundation for success.
“Lee Academy has an amazing support system and is bursting with potential,” he said. “Having the opportunity to lead the basketball programs here is surreal.”
Looking ahead to his first season, Clark has established clear goals for the Colts. He hopes to lead the program to a .500 record or better, finish among the top three teams in the district, and earn a berth in the Class 3A State Tournament.
Fans can also expect an exciting brand of basketball.
“We’re going to play a fast, up-tempo style of offense,” Clark said. “We’re going to press on defense and guard opponents the full 94 feet.”
While wins are important, Clark emphasized that success will be measured by growth and development as much as by the scoreboard.
“Most people only consider a season successful based on wins and losses,” he said. “We have a young, promising roster. As long as we continue to improve, compete every night, and establish a winning culture, our season will be a success.”
Clark also reflected on the significance of becoming the first African American boys basketball coach in school history.
“I give all glory to God,” he said. “It’s a privilege and an honor to be the first African American boys coach here. This is an opportunity God has placed before me, and I’m thrilled to step into this new season.”
Away from the court, Clark enjoys spending time with his wife, Nikki, their 2-year-old son, Denver, and their Goldendoodle, Kash.
“We are excited about this opportunity and becoming part of the Colt family,” Clark said.
As Lee Academy prepares for the upcoming basketball season, school leaders, students, and supporters are eager to see the impact Clark’s leadership, experience, and passion will have both on the hardwood and in the classroom. His arrival signals not only a historic milestone but also an exciting future for Colts basketball.
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