Isbell takes reins at Belgreen

By Bart Moss for the FCT

The Belgreen Bulldogs found their new basketball coach through a network of old Belgreen connections. The Bulldogs tapped Clint Isbell to take over their program after Matt Noah was not retained at the end of the school year.

Isbell, 28, graduated from the University of North Alabama in 2012 and got his first teaching job in the Arab City school system. He left Arab after taking the head basketball coaching position at Shoals Christian, which was vacated by Patrick Odom when he took the Belgreen head coaching position. Isbell also played for Odom at Shoals Christian.

In 2014 Isbell was hired by former Belgreen standout Brian Pounders at Deshler High School as an assistant coach. There Isbell also coached alongside another former Belgreen coach, Steve Pounders, who helps his son Brian coach the Tiger program.

“I was looking to be a head coach again,” said Isbell.  “Belgreen is a great opportunity because of all the support that comes from the community.”

Isbell will inherit a wealth of talent from a young Bulldog squad.

“Belgreen is has such a rich basketball tradition,” said Isbell. “Belgreen is known for basketball, and the community loves the sport.”

Isbell said he is looking forward to the opportunity to put his stamp on the program.

“This was not a hard decision at all,” he said. “My wife and I knew this was the place for us and the right move.  I am excited and blessed to have this opportunity. The faculty is great, the players are very talented, and we want to compete at a high level.

“Our goal is to put Belgreen basketball back on the map and compete for championships.”