Stratford High School announced this week that Desmond Cambridge will take over as the new head coach of the girls’ basketball program, replacing William Cummings who was dismissed after a two‑season stretch that produced a 16‑26 record.
Cambridge brings more than 20 years of coaching experience at both the school and AAU levels, having spent the past 11 years guiding talent with the Finest Basketball Club in Atlanta. His long‑term involvement in the sport has made him a familiar face to many of the players who will now wear the Stratford jersey.
A Coach With Deep Roots
A graduate of Whites Creek High School, Cambridge played college basketball at Alabama A&M University before being inducted into the university’s Hall of Fame in 2023. He still holds the NCAA Division I men’s single‑season record for steals per game (5.52), a testament to his defensive prowess.
Strategic Vision and Expectations
Dr. Michael Pratt, executive principal of Stratford High, expressed confidence that Cambridge’s blend of playing experience and coaching acumen will translate into immediate competitiveness. "We are aiming for a state championship," Pratt said, underscoring the school’s ambition to restore the program to its former glory.
Cummings’ tenure, marked by a 16‑26 record over two seasons, ended with his dismissal. The school board cited the need for a fresh direction as they turned to a coach whose career has been built on player development and disciplined, defense‑first basketball.
Looking Ahead
The hiring of Cambridge signals a new chapter for Stratford’s girls’ basketball, one that blends a rich local heritage with a proven track record of turning programs into contenders. As the team begins its upcoming season, players and fans alike anticipate a resurgence driven by a coach who knows the community inside and out.