Georgia Southerns first African American female head coach, Anita Howard talks about the journey of getting to 200 wins and what it took to get here.

Question Topic: Howard reached her 200th victory after the Eagles defeated App State 84-73 on February 11. 

• “I don’t take it lightly, I think I’ve gotten here pretty quickly but I’ve had different stops along the way,” said Howard “I’m appreciative for each institution that I’ve accumulated wins at and I’m glad I’m able to be here in Georgia for that 200th win.”

Question Topic: Howard also spoke on her biggest challenge as being a woman of color and taking over different programs. She was the first African American coach at three of her previous schools: Salem College, Columbus State and now Georgia Southern

• “ When you’re the first of anything, you want to make sure you do a great job and leave places better than you found them,” said Howard “Luckily I’ve been blessed to leave those places better than I found them. “  

Question Topic: Her reasoning for becoming a coach includes playing the game herself and the different opportunities that come with it. She also referred to the sport as “The gift of the globe.”

• “ I think basketball is a gift to so many people that you don’t realize it until they graduate and come back or invite you to their wedding or their baby shower.” 
• “When I was a player, I always remembered being a leader on the floor as a point guard,” said Howard, “I like the platform that coaching gives me, the relationships and I like the challenges.” 

Question Topic: Teaching is usually the coaches job but Howard had a few things to say about her players have taught her

• “When I look over the years, whether it’s a TikTok, a quote, or be patient or pick it up, they taught me alot and that’s why I love the game of basketball because it is a life lesson,” Howard stated, “Everyone of my teams and everyone of my personalities on those rosters have taught me something different along the way”

Question Topic: Lastly, Howard gave her own advice for those who might be interested in coaching 

• “ Do the work, it’s not just what you see on Saturdays, it’s not just blowing the whistle and winning the game, it’s a lot of blood sweat and tears that goes on behind the scenes.”
• “You have to be a student of the game and love what you’re doing. It’s not a 9-5 job,” said Howard, “ Its a 24 hour, 365 day job. If you’re not willing to do the work, don’t even waste your time, basketball gives back a lot so you have to be prepared to give a lot to it.