Coaching is probably one of the most fluid, unpredictable occupations across the world of sports. The hours quickly add up, job security is almost never guaranteed, and talent can ultimately dictate how far a team can go—for better or worse. Being tasked with following a highly regarded figure is a difficult request in any career field, but especially coaching. Why' Because everything is publicized and information is so readily available. It takes a matter of minutes to play the comparison game with former coaches versus current coaches. No one necessarily wants to follow Roy Williams or Mike Krzyewski, but we must commend those who choose to step into the line of fire. Those circumstances have definite similarities to Coach Abdul “Josh” Pittman taking over Winston-Salem Prep after their nearly a decade of success under Coach Andre Gould.
We don’t need to go through the long list of achievements from the previous coach, but Pittman had more than his fair share of work to do. Entering his first season at the helm, there was a lot of uncertainty swirling after the Phoenix endured a bizarre Covid-riddled season. They’d managed to stay afloat, but everyone had higher expectations. Insert Pittman, and the rest is history. In just one season, he’s already restored the program back to its former reputation. The roster was already intriguing prior to his arrival, but the individual pieces have each taken a step forward while still embracing their respective roles on a nightly basis.
Some folks will inevitably focus on the Phoenix’s most recent loss in the final four of the NCHSAA 1A Playoffs. However, we should consider the development of this group and truly appreciate everything they accomplished in the recent months. Coach Pittman found success with his previous crew at Lexington, but has also been a notable figure within the travel ball scene during his time coaching with Team Phoenix and (now) Team Bond. He was also named 1A Northwest Piedmont Coach of the Year. It should definitely be the start of something exciting.
Additionally, the pieces of the roster are worthy of attention. The senior duo of 5’10 Jay Penn and 6’0 Michael Jordan excelled within their respective roles. Penn is undersized but quick, unselfish, and pesky defensively. Meanwhile, Jordan is a complementary guard and capable scorer from all levels. 6’1 ’23 Jamison Graves is poised for a productive senior season and will draw attention from college coaches, 6’3 ’23 Areon Matthews is easily one of the best rebounders and low-maintenance guys in the state, and 6’2 ’25 Yohance Connor continues to turn heads with his impressive production as a freshman. Expect to hear about this squad over the foreseeable future.