News Summary

Pine Forest High School welcomes new head coaches for its boys’ and girls’ basketball teams, including alumnus Joseph Brown, Kevin Barona, and Noelle Jones. The school community is excited about the fresh leadership and hopes to improve the team’s performance in the upcoming season. With a renewed commitment to discipline and teamwork, the new coaches aim to build a legacy of success in Pine Forest’s vibrant athletic programs.

Exciting Changes on the Hardwood: Pine Forest High School Welcomes New Basketball Coaches!

Pine Forest, known for its vibrant community and strong sports programs, is buzzing with excitement as the school proudly announces its new head basketball coaches for both the boys’ and girls’ teams! These decisions come as the school bids farewell to previous coaches and welcomes fresh talent to lead the programs into the future.

Meet Joseph Brown: A Familiar Face Returns!

Kicking things off is Joseph Brown, who has been named the new head coach for the boys’ basketball program. This is particularly special for Brown, as he is not just any coach; he is a proud alumnus of Pine Forest! After having played for the team in his high school days, Brown graduated from East Carolina University and has spent years cultivating his coaching skills. Prior to this, he served as an assistant coach at Terry Sanford High School, leading that team to impressive heights, which includes finishing as state championship runners-up in 2010.

Brown’s experience doesn’t stop there! He spent a commendable 13 years at Pine Forest Middle School, where he took on head coaching roles for both football and basketball. Notably, in the 2024-25 season, he led the middle school basketball team to a stunning 12-0 record! With Pine Forest’s last season ending with a 14-12 record, including a 7-8 performance in the AAC, the community is eager to see how Brown’s expertise will help lift the program back up after a first-round playoff exit.

Introducing Kevin Barona: A New Leader for the Boys’ Program

Alongside Brown, the boys’ basketball program welcomes Kevin Barona as its new head coach. Barona is a native of Texas and comes equipped with a wealth of experience as he previously served as an assistant coach at Mansfield Summit High School. His strategic insights helped guide that team to a state championship, showcasing his ability to foster winning teams.

Barona takes over from former coach Ty McCants, who led the Eagles for seven years. McCants wrapped up his impressive tenure with a commendable 112-75 record before stepping down. Barona is excited to build on the strong foundation laid by his predecessor and emphasizes the importance of discipline, hard work, and community ties as cornerstones of his coaching philosophy.

Noelle Jones: Empowering the Girls’ Team!

On the girls’ side, Pine Forest is thrilled to announce the appointment of Noelle Jones as the new head coach. Like Brown, Jones is also an alumnus of the school, making her role a heartfelt “full circle moment.” Previously serving as an assistant coach for the girls’ program, she is ready to step up and lead the team to new victories. Under her guidance, the girls’ team finished last season with a 10-14 record and made it to the District 1-5A championship game.

The Road Ahead: A Promising Future!

All three new coaches—Brown, Barona, and Jones—are already reaching out to returning players to communicate expectations for the upcoming season. They understand that success hinges not only on skill but also on cultivating a sense of community and teamwork. Pine Forest has a rich tradition in basketball, and these committed coaches are focused on building a legacy that celebrates hard work and sportsmanship.

As the upcoming season approaches, the excitement among students, parents, and fans continues to grow. Pine Forest High School is on the brink of some exhilarating basketball action, and with new leadership at the helm, the future looks incredibly bright for both the boys’ and girls’ programs. Get ready for a thrilling ride ahead!

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