By Thomas Grant Jr.
A year ago, Elliott Pope led Lexington High School boys’ basketball to its first state title in 24 years.
Last Thursday, he announced his resignation on Twitter after six seasons at the helm.
“This decision comes as I pursue a master’s degree in educational administration, a long held personal and professional goal,” Pope wrote. “Leading these young men and being a part of the Lexington community has been an immense privilege. I’m deeply grateful for the support of the players, their families, and the entire community. The memories and achievements we’ve shared especially our 2024 5A state championship will forever hold a special place in my heart.”
Pope was hired in 2019 out of West Davidson High School in North Carolina to replace coaching legend Bailey Harris. Up until this past season, he led the Wildcats to a winning record every year.
During the 2022-23, Lexington won the first of two straight region titles under Pope. It went 20-7 and advanced to the Class 5A Upper State final where it lost to Dorman and head coach and Lexington graduate Tommy Ryan.
The following season, a motivated Wildcats’ team dominated the regular season. They not only went 28-2 overall but were undefeated in the Palmetto State and won its five post-season games by an average margin of 23.2 points.
Having lost key starters Cam Scott, Jaxon Prunty, Coulter Bell and Kaleb Evans, Lexington went through a rebuilding season. The Wildcats finished 4-19 overall, 0-10 in Region 4-5A before losing in the first round of the Class 5A Division I playoffs.
Pope closed his statement by thanking the school, former players, and supporters for “an unforgettable six years” . He also thanked former principal Melissa Rawl and former athletics director Perry Woolbright for giving him the opportunity and believes the current leadership with Principal Jennifer McNair and AD Dustin Curtis will do “an incredible job with the decision-making” for the next step in Lexington’s future.
In addition to boys basketball, Lexington is seeking a new wrestling coach to replace Chase Owens.
Former Lexington High School boys’ basketball coach Elliott Pope and athletics director Dustin Curtis. – Photo by lexingtonwildcats.com
