Middleton Changed the Culture of Basketball at Tishomingo County
Updated: Jan 18, 2024
*Written February 2023 for an assignment by Thayer Glidewell
2022-2023 District 1-4A Division Champs for the 3rd consecutive season. Photo credits unknown (social media photo)
When Head Coach Brian Middleton left private school, he took a leap of faith moving to a small town in Northeast Mississippi tasked with turning around a failing girls basketball program, asking them to make his dream their reality.
In his seventh year as coach at Tishomingo County High School, not only do his players believe in him, but they believe in his dream.
It was not hard for these girls to decide who they wanted to dress up as "Dress as your favorite teacher/coach" day at school. "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery," Charles Caleb Colton said. Photo courtesy Baylon Middleton
Upon his arrival, he began turning around a program that had struggled for years with a previous season record of 4-24.
In the 25-year history, the Lady Braves won three District Championships and made two appearances at The Big House for state playoffs; in 1996, they came in second in the championship game, and in 1997, they were put out in the final four.
Since arriving, Middleton has led the Lady Braves to four consecutive District Championship appearances, winning the last three years.
"I have had five consecutive 20-plus win seasons with four of those being 25-plus wins," Middleton said.
Middleton and teammates celebrating Abbi Reed when a timeout was called during a pivotal moment in the Tishomingo County vs. Belmont, county rival matchup. Photo courtesy of Jerry Charbauski
Last year (2021-2022 season), he carried the Lady Braves to the Big House for the first time since 1997 to play in the Championship game, falling to Choctaw Central and ending the season 31-4.
"I am really proud of all the girls that have come through the program since I have been at TC," Middleton said. "I have had six players reach 1,000 career points in my seven years. Those games are always special."
Middleton takes time to pose for a selfie with his players. This shows the respect and strong team bond he has created while being at Tishomingo County. Photo courtesy of social media
It has taken him time, but Middleton has turned it around, creating the program he dreamed of building.
For Middleton it isn't about building stats as a coach; he has had multiple opportunities to leave his core players in the game to bust the clock, instead choosing to play his entire roster.
Middleton in action during the District Championship Tournament at Itawamba Community College.
Photo courtesy of Jerry Charbauski
"We take pride every time we step on the floor," Middleton said. "They are trying to develop their skills to get ready for the varsity level and we take that seriously."
The future is bright for the Lady Braves as this year's Junior Varsity team completed their season undefeated.
"We want them to be proud of an undefeated season," Middleton said. "It's special every time you win, and JV is no different."
This season is far from over, as they face Choctaw Central on Friday in Round 2 Division play on the road to The Big House.
The Lady Braves, coaching staff, Blue Crew, and fans celebrating the 2nd round playoff win at home against rival Choctaw Central. Photo courtesy of social media
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