Coach Ben Williams returns to lead Panther girls’ basketball

By Courtney Warren

Canton Academy is welcoming the return of longtime educator and coach Ben Williams to the Panther basketball court for the 2025 season. Coach Williams will resume his role as head coach for both junior high and varsity girls’ basketball teams—roles he has held at various points over his nearly thirty-year coaching career.

The upcoming school year will mark Coach Williams’ 16th year at Canton Academy. In addition to coaching, he will continue leading the school’s track and cross country programs and teaching multiple science courses, where he is known for incorporating hands-on learning experiences.

Coach Williams holds multiple degrees from Delta State University and has completed the MAIS Leadership Institute’s Administration Certification. Over the course of his career, he has served in several educational leadership roles, including principal, interim Head of School, athletic director and science teacher.

His coaching résumé includes experience across a wide range of sports, with eleven Mississippi Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) State Championships to his credit. He has also been named MAIS Coach of the Year eleven times.

Coach Williams’ connection to Canton Academy is deeply rooted. His wife, Robin Williams, has taught in the school’s preschool program for fifteen years. Their children, A.B. (Class of 2015) and Jenson (Class of 2019), are both Canton Academy alumni and have pursued careers in education and coaching.

School officials say Coach Williams’ return adds continuity and experience to the school’s athletics program as the Panthers prepare for the upcoming season.