Thomas, out as North Atlanta coach
By Robert Alfonso Jr.
Atlanta, GA – After an investigation by the Atlanta Public School system, in response to accusations of rule violations levied against the basketball team, according to confirmed reports, North Atlanta boy’s basketball coach William “BJ” Thomas and staff held at least four (4) illegal practices at a local middle school. The practices violated the Georgia High School Association policy requiring the school to self-report.
Basketball activities were put on hold while the investigation was going on. The school board’s decision was final Wednesday night at 5 pm. Thomas, who has been coaching for 25 years, will retain his teaching position but is not allowed to coach the North Atlanta Warriors. Confirmed reports indicate he will appeal to the school board about their ruling.
North Atlanta’s staff violated GHSA rule 2.69-b1, which states, that illegal practices are defined as five (5) or more students participating in any extracurricular activity in the presence of, or under direct or indirect of any coach of the school, including a community coach. The rule allows for one (1) coach of the sport to work up to four (4) athletes in skill-building drills.
Georgia high school coaches are allowed to hold 4-on-1 skill development sessions starting in September until the first day of tryouts, which is October 21 this year. These sessions are scheduled by the head coach of the program.
Thomas took the North Atlanta position in April after five seasons at McDonough High School. The Cincinnati native made two final four appearances, won two region Coach of the Year awards, and one region championship. He won 113 games at the Henry County school but never played for a state title.
North Atlanta was looking for a coach after the unexpected passing of previous head coach Kerry Sarden. Despite the beloved coach’s death, the Warriors continued its season finishing 12-16 before being eliminated in the second round of the GHSA Class AAAAAA state playoffs by Grovetown High School.
Reports are North Atlanta and Atlanta Public Schools have reached into Florida looking for a new coach.
About the Author
Alfonso
Robert Alfonso Jr. is a graduate of Mount Sait Mary College. He has more than 20 years of journalism experience. Alfonso has helped build a basketball web brand in Georgia and has covered high school through college sports for publications in New York, North Carolina, and Georgia. His mission has always been to uplift the athletes who play sports providing them the exposure needed in this new media platform.