JOURNAL SPORTS

Northwood coach Marvin Davis, an Airline assistant coach from 2020-22 under Eddie Hamilton, has been hired as the Vikings’ boys basketball coach, AHS athletic director Toby Todd announced Thursday.

Davis, a 20-year coaching veteran, has been at Northwood since leaving Airline for the 2022-23 season. He is replacing Cedric Washington, who stepped down after two seasons leading the Vikings’ program.

A 1996 graduate of Quitman High School, Davis graduated with an education degree from Louisiana Tech. His first job was at Lakeside Junior and Senior High School, where he served as the girls basketball coach, reaching the playoffs four out of five years. His tenure included a quarterfinal playoff appearance, a regional final, and two bi-district playoff berths.

He moved to Mansfield High School as the Wolverines’ head boys coach for six years. Davis led the team to the playoffs three times, a 2016-17 District 1-2A championship and district Coach of the Year honors. His teams were district runners-up in 2017-2018 and 2018-2019.

Todd said Davis is known for his discipline, strategic approach, and ability to inspire young athletes to reach their potential.

Davis’ late father Jimmie Davis was a longtime successful head football coach at Jonesboro-Hodge.