Athletic Director Brandt Walker announced Thursday that Coach Henry Gantz is Jackson Academy’s new head coach and girls basketball program director. Coach Gantz brings a wealth of experience and a passion for developing student-athletes, both on and off the court.
Coach Gantz graduated from Ole Miss with a degree in marketing communications before launching his coaching career. He comes to JA after 10 years at Central Hinds Academy, where he has spent the past decade as athletic director, head girls basketball coach, and a respected educator.
“I’m thrilled to be given the opportunity to coach at Jackson Academy,” said Gantz. “There are so many reasons to be excited, but what stands out most is the chance to work alongside the dedicated JA staff and be part of a community filled with exceptional students and families. I feel confident we can continue the winning culture JA girls basketball has enjoyed for so many years and the incredible foundation that Coach Sojourner has built.”
Coach Gantz has shaped a highly successful girls basketball program, earning recognition as an MAIS Coach of the Year (2023 and 2024) and a five-time All-Star Coach. His teams have achieved remarkable success at all levels, including a JV record of 74-1 over three seasons, which featured a 57-game winning streak. At the varsity level, his teams won back-to-back state championships and reached the Overall Final Four the last two seasons. His leadership extends beyond the high school level, as he also founded and coaches the Mississippi Jazz, a travel basketball program that competes at a nationally ranked level and won the 2019 Nike Platinum National Championship.
More than just a coach, Coach Gantz is a mentor and motivator who takes pride in the intensity, efficiency, and passion his teams bring to the game. His love for coaching is evident in the way he speaks about his players and their commitment to excellence.
Coach Gantz and his family, including his wife, Shelby, and their young son, Beau, are excited to join the JA family. “We are confident that his leadership, experience, and passion for the game will make an immediate impact on our program,” said Walker.
Please join JA in welcoming Coach Henry Gantz to Jackson Academy!
