La'Daja James has stepped into the role of head coach for the Princess Anne girls basketball program, taking the reins from longtime mentor Darnell Dozier. The transition comes as the team rides a 71‑game winning streak and eyes a fifth straight state championship.
A Legacy in the Making
Under Dozier’s guidance the program has become a powerhouse, but James is eager to imprint her own philosophy while preserving the winning culture.
James brings a deep reservoir of experience, having starred at Norfolk State before launching a coaching career that includes stints at First Colonial. Her playing background gives her a player‑first perspective that she hopes will translate into sustained success on the court.
Though she has never defeated Dozier as a coach, the former player has publicly offered his support, praising James’s commitment and work ethic. She emphasizes that the team’s performance should remain steady, allowing the athletes to build on the foundation already established.
The upcoming season will be a litmus test for James’s vision. Fans and alumni alike are watching closely to see whether the program can maintain its dominance while embracing a new leadership style that honors its storied past.