Marquessa Gilson has been named the new head coach of the Centralia College women’s basketball program, taking the reins in May after a distinguished playing career at the Division II level.
Gilson brings a defensive mindset honed over years on the court, a philosophy she refined while guiding teams at Lower Columbia College and Pierce College to back‑to‑back NWAC tournament appearances and winning seasons.
A Family‑Driven Journey
Growing up with brothers Marcus and Russell Gilson, Marquessa credits her family’s athletic legacy for shaping her competitive spirit. Her mother’s encouragement after her playing days sparked the idea of coaching, while Russell’s recent battle with a treatable cancer has added a personal layer of resilience to her current role.
Marcus, who starred for Centralia from 2017 to 2019, remains a constant reminder of the school’s deep basketball roots. Meanwhile, Jason Moir, a longtime mentor, has been cheering her on as she leads an AAU squad in a Kentucky tournament, balancing the demands of recruitment with the emotional weight of her family’s circumstances.
Building a Marquee Program
Gilson’s vision for the Trailblazers extends beyond a single tournament run. She aims to transform the program into a marquee event that draws community attention and develops talent capable of competing nationally. The 2025‑26 campaign ended with a 9‑18 record, but she sees that as a foundation for a rapid turnaround.
Succeeding Tiffany Twiddy, Gilson inherits a team eager for direction. Her defensive‑first approach, coupled with the experience of having coached at both Lower Columbia and Pierce, positions her to guide the Trailblazers back to the NWAC Tournament and, ultimately, to sustained excellence.
The road ahead will be shaped by the same perseverance that defined her playing days and that now fuels her coaching ambition, as she looks to honor her family’s legacy while carving a new path for Centralia basketball.