Faulkner Named Head Coach at Coahoma

CLARKSDALE, Miss. (Coahoma CC) Coahoma Community College proudly announces the appointment of Coach Deneshia Faulkner as the new head coach of the Lady Tigers basketball program—marking an exciting new chapter for women’s athletics at CCC.

Coach Faulkner is more than a coach—she’s a visionary leader, championship builder, and motivator of excellence. Her coaching career, rooted in integrity, passion, and high standards, has transformed programs at every level, and now she brings that unmatched energy to Coahoma.

Her journey began with a spirit of service, volunteering as an assistant at Jefferson Davis High School while still competing as a student-athlete at Alabama State University. What followed was a historic coaching career that includes dominant seasons, culture-shifting leadership, and an unwavering commitment to developing young women into winners both on and off the court.

At Heidelberg High School, her alma mater, Coach Faulkner rewrote the playbook. Under her leadership, the team captured four district titles and made five state tournament appearances. She led them to their first-ever undefeated regular season and a groundbreaking trip to the state championship game—changing the trajectory of the program forever.

She carried that same magic to Meridian High School, where she built another powerhouse. There, she guided the program to four district championships and secured the school’s first-ever girls’ basketball state title, establishing a new standard of excellence.

Her impact continued at the collegiate level when she made history as the first African American head coach on the women’s side at Jones College. Taking over a program with only two returning players, she engineered a remarkable turnaround. By her second season, the team logged five conference wins and notched a statement victory against one of the league’s top-ranked teams—proving again that her leadership turns potential into power.

Now, she brings her proven formula for success to Coahoma, where the Lady Tigers have already built a solid foundation of grit, growth, and postseason appearances over the past five years. With a roster full of talent and a hunger to break through, the timing couldn’t be better.

“I’ve watched the growth of this program, and I’m honored to now be part of it,” said Coach Faulkner. “The Lady Tigers have laid a solid foundation, and I’m here to build on that with championship culture, a relentless mindset, and a commitment to developing greatness. We’re going to raise the standard and compete at the highest level.”

President Dr. Valmadge Towner stated, “Coach Faulkner is a proven winner and the kind of leader who inspires excellence in everyone around her. Her impact will be felt far beyond the court. We are excited to welcome her to the Coahoma family.”

Athletic Director Selina Reid echoed the excitement: “From the moment we began this search, we knew we wanted someone who could continue the momentum while elevating our women’s basketball program to new heights. Coach Faulkner is that person. She brings energy, integrity, and a vision that aligns perfectly with the culture we’ve been building.”

Coach Faulkner’s influence extends far beyond the scoreboard. With 25 players coached into collegiate scholarships—including three who advanced to Power Four programs and one who signed with the WNBA—her ability to prepare athletes for the next level is unmatched. Through her personal brand, Coach Faulkner, she empowers athletes with tools to win not just in games, but in life.

Coahoma Community College is honored to welcome Coach Faulkner into the Tiger family. Her arrival signals not just a new season—but a new standard. The future of Lady Tigers basketball has never looked brighter. Welcome to Coahoma, Coach Faulkner. Let’s make history.