Reviving a Tradition
Felicia Johnson has been appointed head coach of Kentwood High School's girls basketball team, tasked with reigniting a program that has struggled in recent seasons.
Johnson's journey in basketball began on the courts of Central Washington University, where she played collegiately before transitioning to coaching in 2003. Over the years she accrued experience as an assistant and interim head coach at Kentwood, giving her an intimate understanding of the program's culture.
Central to her philosophy is a commitment to player involvement and open two‑way communication. She believes that when athletes feel heard, they are more likely to invest fully in the team's success.
The program's recent record stands as its worst two‑year stretch since the 2014‑15 season, a fact that has fueled both fan disappointment and administrative pressure. Johnson sees this as a catalyst for change rather than a deterrent.
To foster a family‑like atmosphere, she plans to collaborate with fellow coaches across the school's sports spectrum, including head football coach Quincey Davison, whose own efforts have highlighted the interconnectedness of athletics at Kentwood.
Having stepped back from other coaching commitments, Johnson is now fully focused on shaping the girls basketball team, aiming to build a foundation that can sustain long‑term competitiveness.
Community members and alumni alike are watching closely, hopeful that her blend of playing experience, coaching acumen, and collaborative spirit will usher in a new era of success for Kentwood basketball.