Wes Morgan's coaching journey with the Mitchell High School girls basketball program has come full circle. After stepping away from the head coach role in 2019, the veteran leader is officially set to return to the helm, pending school board approval. His reappointment marks a homecoming for a familiar face dedicated to the Kernels' success.
Morgan takes over from Dave Brooks, who retired following a four-year stint. For Morgan, this opportunity is the realization of a long-held goal. "I'm excited to continue with the program, make the calls again and have a good time," Morgan said, highlighting his passion for strategy and player development. "This is what I like to do: scheming against teams and getting the girls to play at a high level."
His deep roots in the program made him the ideal candidate. Activities Director Cory Aadland emphasized the value of continuity, noting Morgan's intimate knowledge of the team's culture and recent successes. "It gives you confidence and comfort knowing that you've got somebody right there who is beyond capable," Aadland stated, underscoring the seamless transition this hire represents.
Morgan never truly left the gym. His initial departure was to assist with the boys' program while his son, Steele, played. Upon Steele's graduation in 2023, Morgan promptly returned to the girls' sidelines as an assistant—a move that coincided with his daughter CeCe's ascent through the ranks. Now, he gets to coach a promising core he knows intimately, having guided players like CeCe, an all-conference performer as an eighth-grader, and fellow starter Nia Talley for years on youth teams.
With 34 years of coaching experience, nearly all on the girls' side, Morgan brings a seasoned perspective. "I pretty well know what works and what doesn’t work, and I’m not scared to try things and change with the team," he remarked. His return injects stability and experienced leadership into a Mitchell program poised for its next chapter, blending proven methods with a fresh start.
