MOORHEAD, Miss. — Mississippi Delta Community College has named Jamar McKnight as the new head coach of its men’s basketball program, school officials announced. McKnight officially began his duties on June 8.
McKnight brings experience as a former junior college standout, NCAA Division I student-athlete, professional basketball player and veteran coach. His appointment marks a return to the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference (MACCC), where he previously competed as a student-athlete. According to the college, he is currently the only head men’s basketball coach in the conference who previously played in the MACCC.
“We are excited to welcome Coach Jamar McKnight to the Trojan family,” Athletic Director Tangela Banks said in a statement. “His experience as a player, coach and mentor at every level of the game gives him a unique perspective on developing student-athletes both on and off the court.”
Banks said McKnight has demonstrated a commitment to building relationships, developing talent and fostering a championship culture.
McKnight most recently completed his second stint at Baton Rouge Community College, where he served on the coaching staff under head coach Byron Starks. He also worked alongside special assistant John Brady, the former LSU men’s basketball coach.
Before returning to Baton Rouge Community College, McKnight served as an assistant coach at Northwest Mississippi Community College and during an earlier tenure at Baton Rouge Community College.
At Northwest Mississippi, he worked under Shane Oakley, helping guide the Rangers to victories over Pearl River Community College, Holmes Community College and nationally ranked East Mississippi Community College.
During his first stint at Baton Rouge Community College, McKnight served under Ricky Wilson, a former assistant coach at the University of Southern Mississippi. The Bears won a conference championship and advanced to the MACCC quarterfinals during that period.
McKnight now takes over the Trojans program as Mississippi Delta Community College looks to build on its basketball tradition and continue developing student-athletes on and off the court.
