The DeSoto school district is on the cusp of naming Nicke Smith as its new basketball head coach, a move that still requires formal board approval.
A Coach With a Championship Pedigree
Smith has guided Kimball to three state titles, including a 62‑42 victory over Almeta Crawford in the recent 4A Division I championship, and has compiled more than 400 career wins.
His program has been a launchpad for talent, sending over 25 student‑athletes to the collegiate level, and his teams have consistently ranked among the state’s elite.
The transition comes after Robert Wright stepped down from his role as DeSoto’s head coach last month, leaving a vacancy that the district hopes Smith can fill.
DeSoto’s recent history includes three consecutive seasons missed the playoffs, the last state tournament appearance dating back to 2023, a slump the administration believes Smith can reverse.
The hiring also creates a ripple effect at Kimball, where the opening represents one of the most coveted positions in Texas high school basketball.