Booneville basketball coach Michael Smith says he never met legendary football coach Frosty Westering, who died 13 years ago. Still, Smith credits Westering’s book, “Make the Big Time Where You Are,” with influencing his approach to coaching and life.
Smith, 48, has built a storied career in northeast Mississippi, where basketball is a community passion. His teams have won 765 games and 11 state championships over 22 seasons. His dedication has earned him a reputation as a local sports icon, with the court named after him in Booneville.
Smith often quotes Westering’s philosophy of making the most of where you are. Inside the cover of Westering’s book, Smith wrote: “I don’t have to be the head coach at Duke or North Carolina to run a program like they do.” His winning percentage stands at 75%, comparable to renowned college coaches.
Last week, Smith’s girls team secured their fourth state title in five years, defeating Belmont 54-31 at the Mississippi Coliseum. Meanwhile, the boys team was eliminated in the semifinals by St. Stanislaus. Smith will coach the Mississippi boys All-Stars in Saturday’s Mississippi-Alabama All-Star game, highlighting his ongoing influence in the sport.
Smith emphasizes the importance of supporting his players, regardless of wins or losses. “You can’t be ecstatic for one when you hurt for the other,” he said. “The losses haunt you more than the wins, but I try to enjoy the kids whether we win or lose.”
Growing up in Booneville, Smith was influenced by his mother, Denise, a middle school teacher, and his family. He played basketball at New Site High School, then at Northeast Community College and Ole Miss, majoring in education and social studies. His passion for coaching was sparked at a basketball camp, where he saw how teaching skills could change a child’s confidence.
Smith credits several mentors, including high school coach Randle Downs, junior college coach Mike Lewis, and Booneville principal Ricky Neaves. His encounter with legendary UCLA coach John Wooden in 2007 remains a highlight. Wooden invited Smith and his wife, Shawna, to Los Angeles for a weekend visit that left a lasting impression of humility and faith.
During their visit, Wooden shared a story about a bird dropping on his head to remind him to stay humble. Smith recalls Wooden’s kindness and down-to-earth nature, qualities he strives to emulate. The Smith family, parents to seven children, continues to prioritize faith and community in their lives and careers.
For Smith, success is about more than wins; it’s about making a difference in young lives. His story reflects the small-town spirit of big-time coaching rooted in humility and love for the game.
