Canton hires former WNBA coach/star Edwards as new hoops coach

The Canton High School Athletic Department just hired a new girls basketball head coach with eye-popping credentials.

On Tuesday, Canton Athletic Director Tiffany Roberts announced that former star WNBA player/coach Tonya Edwards will take over the reins of the girls hoops program.

“Tonya brings an exceptional basketball background to Canton,” Roberts said. “She has experience as a championship player and coach at the high school, collegiate and WNBA levels.”

A standout at the University of Tennessee, Edwards played under legendary head coach Pat Summitt, helping the Lady Vols capture two NCAA National Championships.

Talent took her to the summit of women’s hoops

Her collegiate career established the foundation for a professional playing career that ultimately took her to the highest level of women’s basketball.

Edwards played five seasons in the WNBA, representing the Minnesota Lynx, Phoenix Mercury, and Charlotte Sting.

Selected by Minnesota in the 1999 WNBA Draft, Edwards made an immediate impact and was named a WNBA All-Star during her rookie season.

Her WNBA experience continued on the sidelines as she served as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Sparks from 2016–2018, including the Sparks’ 2016 WNBA Championship season.

Focus on developing players

She later joined the Chicago Sky coaching staff, where she was part of the organization’s 2021 WNBA Championship. Her professional coaching experience has allowed her to work with and develop some of the top players in women’s basketball.

Throughout her coaching career, Edwards has developed a reputation for player development, accountability, leadership and competitive excellence. Most recently, she led Carman-Ainsworth High School to an undefeated 28–0 season, capturing both district and regional championships.

“We are excited to welcome Coach Edwards to Canton High School,” said Tiffany Roberts, Assistant Principal of Athletics and Activities. “Her experience as both a player and coach at the highest levels of women’s basketball is an incredible opportunity for our student-athletes.

Builder of relationships

“Beyond her basketball knowledge and accomplishments, what stood out throughout the process was her commitment to developing young women and building relationships. We were looking for a leader who wants to invest in our student-athletes, our families, and the Canton community for the long term. Coach Edwards shares our vision of building a program with consistency, stability, high expectations, and a culture that our student-athletes are proud to be part of.”

Edwards will immediately begin working with Canton student-athletes and families, with a focus on establishing a strong program culture, developing players throughout all levels of the program, and creating a foundation for sustained success for years to come.

Edwards takes over a talented roster that includes seniors-to-be McKinsey Berlin and Devyn Reiger.