NW Mississippi Women’s Basketball Coach LaTaryl Williams Returns to NJCAA Tournament

LAKE CHARLES, La. — Northwest Mississippi Community College women’s basketball coach LaTaryl Williams is making his return to the NJCAA Division I National Tournament, this time as a coach. Williams, who played for the Rangers from 1996 to 1998, helped lead the team to a 57-11 record and a trip to the 1998 NJCAA Final Four, earning multiple individual honors along the way, according to sources.

Williams recalled his tournament experience fondly. “It’s fresh on my mind. The memories last a lifetime. The bond we built with our team still exists today,” he said. Since Northwest secured the Region 23 Championship, the team’s group chat has seen increased activity, with teammates congratulating Williams and sharing pride in the team’s achievement.

Despite being seeded 23rd out of 24 teams, Williams emphasized that anything can happen in postseason play. He recounted a similar Cinderella run during his sophomore year, when Northwest upset a 33-0 Allegany Community College team, featuring NBA All-Star Steve Francis. “We beat them very convincingly,” Williams said.

Returning to the national tournament as the school’s coach is a moment of pride for Williams. He described it as a personal milestone, having won a Region 23 title as a player and now coaching at the same college. “It gives me a sense of pride,” he said. “To do it again as a coach means a lot to me.”

Williams has urged his team to appreciate the moment and stay united. “Really take advantage of the moment and do it as a group, as a family,” he said. “This is a special time. Enjoy it and make the most of it.”

Arriving in Lake Charles on Sunday, the team is eager to compete. Williams noted the players’ enthusiasm during practice. Northwest will face Dodge City, ranked 10th, on Wednesday, March 25, at 12:15 p.m. The game will be streamed on ESPN+. Fans can follow updates on the team via the Ranger social media accounts or at nwccrangers.com.

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