by Don Mooney. 11-8-2024
Memphis, TN—Webster describes the phrase full circle as: ‘a return to a past position or situation, especially in a way considered to be inevitable’. Those in Memphis who’ve witnessed current head coach of LeMoyne-Owens College (LOC) Magicians basketball coach career evolve, it seems inevitable Antonio Harris’ hire completes his circular journey.
“LeMoyne was a beautiful manicured campus and I thought it was off limits for us. Even though a street just separated us from one curb to another. I never in a million years thought that I would be coaching here.” photo by Don Mooney
Officially the record books will indicate this is Harris’ second year leading the Magicians program. However Harris was given the keys to the program in what seemed like moments before the previous seasons tipoff. Former NBA player Bonzi Wells coached the previous two seasons for LOC before abruptly leaving to join Georgia Tech’s coaching staff led by his former Portland Blazer teammate Damon Stoudamire.
Coming off what some would consider lack-luster season (9-16) left with players from Wells previous team. Harris looks to bring his style of exciting, intensely smart basketball to LeMoyne-Owens.
Harris grew up in the shadows of LOC. A product of LeMoyne Garden Housing Development his entire childhood he attended area grade schools. Once he hit the campus of BTW he grew to become the player, leader-a man destined for basketball greatness.
photo by Don Mooney
Its was at BTW where coached by legendary Fred T. Horton his passion and purpose developed. He took BTW to the state championship in 1994.
After graduating BTW Harris earned a scholarship to UT-Knoxville. After a brief stint he returned to familiar territory of LOC under the watchful eye of another legendary Coach Jerry C. Johnson. From 1997-1999, he helped the LOC become a nationally recognized powerhouse. He captured several accolades/records in the SIAC and NCAA. He currently holds many records in 3-point field goals made per game in a season (4.8 per game, SIAC), single game 3-point field goals made (14-19, SIAC), & career 3-point field goals average (4.7 – NCAA).
After bouncing around a couple of professional leagues Harris leveraged his Social Work Degree and became a fixture serving South Memphis as Program Director of the Goodwill and Porter-Goodwill Boys & Girls Clubs.
Coach circles up team after practice. Harris’ philosophy is intensity and being cerebral. Players able to read and react on the fly. Intelligent with the skills and talent to WOW! people. photo by Don Mooney
In 2013 got the opportunity to take over the program at BTW and checked in for his former coach Horton. He helped BTW stay relevant as a powerhouse while accumulating several Coach of the Year Awards, numerous District and Regional Tournament titles, and 3 State Tournament appearances during his tenure.
When LOC Athletic Director William Anderson came calling it seemed obvious Harris was the perfect choice. Especially for a school who still holds the Tennessee distinction as the only NCAA basketball team in the state to win a national championship. In order to change the culture Anderson expectations are like that of many LOC fans across the country. “My expectations of success is to build a winning culture, states Anderson over the phone. Success on the court will in turn lead to success off the court in terms of marketing.”
Coach Tyree Beason who played for Harris from 2013-2016 and replaced Harris at BTW loves the brand of basketball he will bring to LOC’s program. “Expect exciting, winning-leave it all on the court type of basketball,” states Beason who goes on further to point out Harris’ leadership will extend beyond the court. Points Beason, “Coach Harris groomed me with discipline and structure through basketball that extends beyond the court. Under his leadership he will make winning fun. I plan on tuning in myself!”
The circle is complete. Now the building and winning begins. Coach Harris, the kid from across the street, steps into the shadow to create a culture of winning.
Season kicks off tonight at 6:30pm against Delta State at Bruce – Johnson Hall