AMS Basketball enters new era with two former pros

Arlington Middle School basketball is entering a new chapter, fueled by the arrival of fresh talent at the helm of both the boys' and girls' teams. The program this year welcomes two new head coaches, each bringing extensive pro-level experience and a vision to elevate the game for Arlington's student-athletes. With assistant coaches in place for both teams as well, the program is looking to expand its footing in middle school basketball.

NBA, Mississippi State alum Jarvis Varnado to lead boys’ basketball

On the boys' side, Arlington has landed Coach Jarvis Varnado, a 6-foot 10-inch center known for his shot-blocking ability and defensive skills. Varnado set NCAA records during his college career at Mississippi State, where he led the nation in blocks and even surpassed Shaq’s SEC block record. Varnado went on to become the NCAA’s all-time shot-blocking leader, earning SEC Defensive Player of the Year honors for three consecutive seasons.

His professional career took him to the NBA, where he played for the Miami Heat, winning the 2013 championship. In addition to stints with the Chicago Bulls and Philadelphia 76ers, Varnado also played internationally in Italy, Israel, Turkey and Puerto Rico, showcasing his defensive skills and leadership on a global stage. Most recently, he coached with the Memphis Elite AAU Basketball program.

As he transitions into his coaching role at AMS, Varnado is eager to build a winning culture based on hard work, defense and development. "I’m just excited to teach kids the game and show the passion I have for the game,” Varnado told us. “You know, when I was growing up, I didn’t have all the knowledge I have now. But as I traveled the country and the world playing, I had great coaches who wanted to invest in me. I retained as much knowledge as they could teach me, and I want to share that with younger players now. We’ll focus on the fundamentals, on the discipline, but I also want them to realize that if you really want to be good at something, you have to put in the work. That’s what we’re going to do.”  

Joining Varnado as Assistant Coach is Brandon Thompson, a seasoned coach with deep roots in the basketball community. The former Crichton College basketball alum has coached basketball teams in the region, including Oxford High School, Lausanne High, KIPP and City University. He most recently served as a football coach at Freedom Prep in Memphis.

Casie Miller brings NWBL, college-level experience to AMS Girls’ Basketball

Leading the girls’ team is Casie Miller, whose impressive playing career and coaching accomplishments speak volumes about her ability to shape the future of Arlington’s young athletes. A standout point guard from Germantown High School, Miller was a 4-time All-District and All-Region selection, as well as District and Region MVP. Her senior-year accolades included being named to the Memphis Commercial Appeal’s Shelby Metro Best of the Preps and the All-State Tournament Team.

Miller continued her basketball journey at Arkansas State University, where she excelled as a 3-year starter at point guard, leading the team in scoring, assists, steals and free throw percentage. Her offensive abilities earned her the ASU Team Offensive Player of the Year title, and she was recognized as an All-Sun Belt Conference player and an Academic All-American.

Transitioning to the professional ranks, Miller was drafted by the Chicago Blaze in the third round of the NWBL and later played overseas in Iceland. As a coach, she led West Collierville Middle School to an astounding 92-8 record, capturing three straight region and sectional championships and earning three state tournament appearances, including a 3rd-place finish in 2022.

Now, as she takes the reins at Arlington Middle, Miller is excited to make an impact not just on the court but within the community. "Our family is moving to Arlington, and we’re all in—my daughters are in the high school program, my husband’s the AHS football coach, so I’m ready to dive into basketball here," Miller said. "Coach Jeter has had great success with this program over the years, and I’m thankful for that foundation. My focus will be on fundamentals, teaching the girls to play the game the right way and preparing them for success in high school."

Returning to the girls’ team for her third year as Assistant Coach is Ashley White, who says she’s looking forward to helping the team and athletes reach new heights on and off the court.

A Promising Future

As Miller and Varnado begin developing their teams, there’s already excitement for both programs. Tryouts are set for the end of the month and early October, and the school is prepping for a big turnout of interested students.

Let’s give them an Arlington Tiger roar as they gear up for the new season! 

Tryout Dates & Times:

AMS Girls Basketball
September 30th & October 2nd from 6:30 - 8:00 PM

AMS Boys Basketball
7th & 8th Grade - October 1st & 2nd from 4:30 - 6:30 PM
6th Grade - October 3rd from 4:30 - 6:30 PM