Oakland girls basketball seeking coach after Jessica Southern resigns

Oakland is seeking a girls basketball coach after Jessica Southern announced her resignation Thursday.

Southern, who held the position for two seasons after being hired in June 2022, said the resignation was to pursue "another opportunity," for which she did not divulge.

"I've been here five seasons, and it's been a lot of fun, being part of the success as Shelby's assistant during a state tournament run, and this year's (sectional run)," said Southern, who was an assistant coach for three seasons under Shelby Campbell before taking over as head coach.

Southern went 38-23 in her two years, including 18-13 this past season. The Lady Patriots reached the Region 4-4A championship game before losing to Blackman and then to eventual state champion Bradley Central in the 4A sectional.

She was named the District 8-4A Coach of the Year in 2023-24.

"I would like to give thank to my assistant coaches and student-athletes for making this season so special," Southern said. "I was honored to get coach of the year. That wouldn't have happened without my staff and players buying into the culture and program.

"I would also like to thank Shelby for bringing me over as her assistant and for (Oakland principal John Marshall) for the opportunity."

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Southern, who played at Franklin County and later Bryan College, was a head coach at Shelbyville for two seasons prior to coming to Oakland.

"I would like to express my gratitude to Coach Southern for her dedication and commitment to our program, student-athletes, and school community," Marshall said. "As we wish her well in all her future endeavors, we will immediately begin the search for a new head coach who will continue the proud traditions of Lady Patriot Basketball."