CLINTON, Miss. --- Mississippi College Director of Athletics Kenny Bizot and head women's basketball coach Greg Long announce Cotoria Blackmon as the assistant women's basketball coach effective June 2023.
 
"I am honored to join the Choctaw family and coach alongside Coach (Greg) Long," said Blackmon. "I am super grateful to be a part of the program and excited to see what is in store for us this season and the seasons to come."
 
A native of the Jackson metro area, Blackmon comes to Mississippi College after one season at Pearl River Community College, where she began her collegiate playing career. The former Callaway High School Charger helped lead PRCC to a Region 23 Championship appearance this past season as the Wildcats comprised a 24-3 mark, including a 12-2 clip inside the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference.
 
During her two seasons suiting up for PRCC, she played in 40-plus contests for the Maroon and Gold and earned a role as team captain. She transferred to William Carey University to continue her playing career for two seasons.  
 
Prior to her time in Poplarville, Miss., she spent the 2021-22 academic year as a girls' basketball coach and educator at Murrah High School. While at MHS, she provided mentorship and led high school students both in the classroom and on the basketball court.
 
Blackmon's coaching career began at William Carey in 2020, following her playing career in Hattiesburg, Miss., as a student assistant coach. She helped guide the Crusaders to a 14-5 mark during the 2020-21 campaign and a 10-4 mark in Southern States Athletic Conference action.
 
"Tori set herself apart early in the interview process. She brings an infectious personality and positive energy to this program. I felt it was important to have her on staff since she is more connected to this generation," said Long about the newest member of the coaching staff. "She is upbeat and has a solid foundation in her faith, a strong tie to the Magnolia State, and has been a part of successful programs during her playing and coaching career."
 
She replaces former Choctaw assistant coach, Maggie Proffitt, who departed for Hartfield Academy at the conclusion of the 2022-23 academic year to take the reins of the Lady Hawks' girls' basketball program.
 
Blackmon's hire solidifies Long's staff for the 2023-24 campaign as she joins the fifth-year head coach and graduate assistants Morgan Campbell, Carley Hudspeth and Dezirae King.