The Water Valley School District recently hired Leon Harris, Jr as the head boys basketball coach. Harris is a seasoned athletic administrator and basketball coach with over two decades of experience leading student-athletes and athletic programs across the high school and collegiate levels. Most recently serving as Athletic Director and Head Boys Basketball Coach at Blytheville School District, he played a pivotal role in transforming the district's athletic culture-enhancing performance, increasing student participation, and developing strong ties with the community.
Harris has served in key coaching roles in Arkansas and Mississippi School Districts which include, Altheimer, KIPP Delta, Warren, Blytheville and McComb. His collegiate coaching roles include Arkansas Tech University in Russellville, AR, Lane College in Jackson, TN and Lake Region State College in Devils Lake, ND. His teams have earned multiple district, regional and state championships, with several athletes advancing to compete at the collegiate level.
Notable achievements include two Junior High Conference Championships with McComb Junior High and an Elite Eight appearance with McComb Senior High. Two Class 2AA State Championships, three Regional Championships and three District Championships with Altheimer School District.
He holds a Master's Degree in Coaching and Athletics Administration from Concordia University, Irvine, CA and a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education from Philander Smith University.
Driven by a deep commitment to student-athlete development, Leon continues to build programs centered on discipline, academic success, and community pride.
He and his wife Linda have two sons, Rhyus and Brandan and a granddaughter, Marlie.