LUMBERTON – Lumberton coach Jay Lofton will be stepping away from basketball.
Lofton led both the boys' and girls' programs at Lumberton, but in his four years leading the Panthers program, he will be most remembered for the success he brought to the girls' program.
"Stepping down as the head basketball coach at Lumberton High School marks the end of a chapter that has been immensely fulfilling both professionally and personally," Lofton told Pine Belt Sports. "I am incredibly proud of what we've achieved together – the boys' team capturing the district championship in 2021, and the girls' team not only winning district titles in 2022, 2023, and 2024 but also making it to the final four in 2022 and playing in the championship game in 2024. These accomplishments speak volumes about the dedication, talent, and hard work of our players and everyone involved in the program. More than the titles, however, I am most proud of the growth of the programs and the positive impact we've had on the lives of our players."
The soon-to-be-married Lofton will be moving to Tennessee.
"As I prepare to embark on a new journey in life with my upcoming marriage, my fiancée and I have decided it is in our best interest to pursue new opportunities," Lofton said. "This decision comes with a heavy heart but also with excitement for the future. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been part of Lumberton High School's basketball program and am confident that the legacy we've built together will continue to thrive. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey."
Lofton was initially hired to coach the boys' program in his first season and led the Panthers to a 10-4 record and a district championship. But Lofton then took over both programs for the next three years
In three seasons of leading the girls, Lofton compiled a 58-14 overall record that included three district championships and two trips to the Big House, most recently leading the program to its first state title game in 67 years. Lofton was also named Pine Belt Sports Basketball Coach of the Year for the 2021-22 season.
"Coach Lofton has done a great job for us at Lumberton with the boys and girls. He leaves our programs in really good shape," Lumberton Athletic Director Patrick Lee said. "As he moves on, it leaves big shoes to fill. Our girls just finished an incredible year and return four starters. Our boys are young and return a lot as well. I feel really good about our assistant coaches and what they bring to the program, and I have no doubt that when we post the positions, there will be a lot of interest. Lumberton basketball is in a good place right now, and we look to continue to build on that success. We certainly wish Coach Lofton the best!"
Lumberton will launch a coaching search to lead both programs effective immediately.
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