Matt Wilbanks has been appointed as the new Head Coach for Yellow Jacket Girls Basketball in the Starkville Oktibbeha School District. The SOSD Board of Trustees approved his hiring during their March meeting on Tuesday.
Currently serving as the Head Coach for varsity girls basketball at Morton High School, Wilbanks brings over a decade of coaching experience to the Lady Jackets basketball program. His coaching journey includes positions in the Scott County School District, Leake County School District, and Union Public School District.
SOSD Superintendent Dr. Tony McGee expressed confidence in the selection, stating, “Coach Wilbanks brings a wealth of experience to Starkville. He is highly respected in high school basketball, and we eagerly anticipate his leadership with the Lady Jackets basketball team.”
In 2024, Coach Wilbanks earned recognition as the Class 4A / Region 5 Coach of the Year from the Mississippi High School Activities Association. Throughout his coaching career, he has consistently led teams to District Championships and deep State Playoff runs.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Wilbanks remarked, “Starkville is a dream job. My family and I are thrilled to become part of the Yellow Jacket family. We look forward to meeting everyone and continuing the great tradition that is Lady Jacket Basketball.”
Coach Wilbanks is set to officially join the Yellow Jacket staff in July, succeeding Kristie Williams, who is retiring from coaching after a 20-year tenure leading Lady Jackets basketball.
Wilbanks holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education from Mississippi State University and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Mississippi College. Besides basketball, he has coached cross country and softball, bringing a multifaceted educational background to his role. Married to Ariel, he is the proud parent of a daughter, Kelby, and son, Mack.
SOSD Superintendent Dr. Tony McGee expressed excitement about Wilbanks joining the Jacket family, saying, “Matt is a proven leader and coach. We are thrilled for him to bring his track record of excellence to Starkville.”
