South Gibson girls basketball is making a major statement with its latest coaching hire. The Lady Hornets have announced the addition of John Wilkins—a coach with a proven championship resume—to lead the program, replacing Catie Embrey. The news was shared on the school's official Facebook page.
Wilkins returns to West Tennessee after spending the last two seasons at the helm of Brentwood High School's girls team. But it's his previous tenure that has fans buzzing. For 15 years, Wilkins led the McKenzie boys program, with the final four years also coaching the girls squad. During that time, he guided McKenzie to back-to-back TSSAA girls basketball state championships in 2022 and 2023—cementing his reputation as a winner.
"My family and I are excited to join the SGC family and become part of a program that has established itself as a real contender in AAA basketball," Wilkins said in a statement. "There is a rich basketball tradition and strong culture here, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to invest in these student athletes, this program, and this community in the years ahead."
For South Gibson, this hire signals a clear commitment to building on recent success and competing at the highest level. Wilkins brings not only experience but a winning mindset that could elevate the Lady Hornets' game—and their gear game, too. Whether you're cheering from the stands or hitting the court, having the right basketball apparel makes all the difference.
