MONTICELLO — A familiar face has returned to SouthwestMississippi to continue his high school basketball coaching career.The Lawrence County School District’s board of trustees officiallyapproved the hiring of Preston Wilson as the new boys basketballcoach at Lawrence County High School.

Wilson, 38, replaces long-time veteran Cougar head coach BobbyLee; who made his retirement official at the end of the 2005-06basketball campaign. Lee, who coached at LCHS for 18 years, plus 17more at New Hebron, amassed over 500 coaching wins in his 35-yearcareer, plus three state championships at LCHS.

Wilson has fostered a resounding 242 wins against 123 defeats in11 years as a varsity head coach, including a remarkable 149-51worksheet in 6 years as Brookhaven High School’s head coach. Healso had coaching stints at Warren Central in Vicksburg andWoodlawn High School in Shreveport, La.

Wilson said he is looking forward to his return to SouthwestMississippi and continuing the fine tradition of Cougarbasketball.

“Mississippi is like a home away from home,” said the Gibsland,La. native. “I am familiar with the type of basketball in the area.I am just happy to be back.

“I want to continue the outstanding level of Lawrence CountyCougar basketball,” added Wilson

Lawrence County principal Daryl Scoggins and athletic directorMike Davis each spoke highly of Wilson during the interviewprocess.

“There were a lot of outstanding applicants for the position,”said Scoggins. “Coach Wilson came highly recommended. He is a goodfit for our program.”

Davis agreed. “A lot of coaches submitted their applications. Wefelt like he (Wilson) was the best choice.”

Wilson thanked a bevy of supporters who made this eventpossible.

“I want to thank the Lawrence County School District, Mr.Scoggins and Coach Mike Davis for having confidence in me to runthis program,” said Wilson.

Wilson said he would have team tryouts in the next fewweeks.