P.K. Yonge Welcomes Willie Powers III to Lead Blue Wave Basketball Program  

June 13, 2024

(Gainesville, FL) – P.K. Yonge Developmental Research School has hired P.K. Yonge alum and former FAMU basketball coach, Willie Powers III to lead the boys basketball program. With more than 10 years of basketball coaching experience, Powers will bring a proven record of winning and player development to the Blue Wave boys basketball program. 

“P.K. Yonge is proud to welcome back one of our own to lead our basketball program. Willie Powers III is a fearless and dogged competitor who will continue the basketball program excellence established over the eras,” said Brian K. Marchman, P.K. Yonge director and superintendent. “I have utmost confidence in Coach Powers, given his valuable next level experience, that he will lead our program and student-athletes in maximizing the potential in each player, as well as the entire Blue Wave basketball program.”

Powers is well-known locally for his time playing for P.K. Yonge. As a senior, Powers led his team to a runner-up finish in the 2007 State Championship game, was a three-time Gainesville Sun Boys Basketball Player of the Year, and runner-up for State Player of the Year. After high school, Powers played at Georgia Southern earning Freshman All- Conference and All-Conference honors before finishing 4th all-time in assists for the Eagle.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to come back to P.K. Yonge as the boys basketball head coach. I am looking forward to continuing and building upon the legacy that Coach Johnson and all of the amazing coaches before me helped to create. I am excited about working with and building relationships with the guys as we strive for excellence both on and off the court,” said Coach Willie Powers III. 

“With his experience at FAMU as an assistant basketball coach, at Georgia Southern as a director of player development, and time playing professional basketball overseas, Willie brings a true understanding of competitive energy and holistic development. He is the right guy at the right time for P.K. Yonge,” said Valerie Flournoy, P.K. Yonge athletic director.

Powers graduated from P.K. Yonge in 2007.  He earned his bachelor’s degree in sport management from Georgia Southern. Powers begins his head basketball coach duties immediately and will assist the girls program until the girls head basketball position is filled. 

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