Basketball has always been a major part of Carbondale Community High School. Over the years, coaching staff have changed hands, but the program has remained strong. After 23 impactful seasons, longtime coach Jim Miller is retiring. Stepping into his shoes is Tommy Holder, who will serve as the new head coach of the CCHS boys’ basketball team for the 2025–26 season.
Coach Tommy Holder is no stranger to the game—or to CCHS. A successful alumni with a deep love for basketball, Holder brings not only experience but also a sharp basketball mind. He’s worked alongside Coach Miller and has previously held head coaching positions, making him well-prepared to take over the reins.
When asked what stands out about Holder’s coaching style, Mrs. Poore, a staff member familiar with the basketball program, said:
“His organization that will be brought and putting his coaching tactics into place.”
She added, “He is setting a position for you, so you can be in the path of where you wanna be in life.”
Coach Holder shared that his passion for coaching came from a deep love of the game:
“It honestly came from my love of the game,” he said.
“The game gives you responsibilities and fascination, so it continues on with me.”
As for his goals in his first year as head coach, Holder made it clear that he wants to set the tone:
“For it being year 1, it is to set the standard. People and kids need to understand—it’s more than just basketball.”
Assistant Coach Kobe Lewis also spoke highly of Holder’s impact:
“I really enjoy it,” Lewis said when asked what it’s like working alongside Coach Holder.
“He’s doing a lot with the guys, got them working hard, and I can’t complain.”
Coach Lewis also shared his excitement about this year’s roster, noting:
“We’ve got a couple young guys like Deon Overy, Will Lehman, and a senior—Jackson Marlow-Evans—who we have high expectations for.”
Jackson Marlow-Evans, a senior, whose the key player on the team, had strong admiration for Coach Holder. He commented with:
“He helped me by being a great human overall, spending time with me outside of basketball, Going to church, He’s just a great human being in general.”
When asked to describe himself as a player, Marlow-Evans responded humbly:
“I’d say I’m a team player. A player that tries to do what the coaches needs to be done, Winning by any means necessary for the team.”
With a new coach at the helm, An motivated Assistant Coach, and dedicated players, the future of CCHS boys’ basketball looks promising. The standard is being set, and it’s clear: this season is about much more than just winning games—it’s about building a program that lasts.
