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Hammond Today
By the People, for the People
Lifelong Friends Lead Rival Teams to State Finals
Bayou Chicot natives Craig Whittington and Tracy Fontenot reunite on the court as head coaches of opposing teams in the girls' basketball state championship.
Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:40pm
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Two longtime friends and rival coaches inspire the next generation of basketball players, even as their teams compete for the state championship.Hammond TodayTwo longtime friends and basketball coaches from the small town of Bayou Chicot, Louisiana, Craig Whittington and Tracy Fontenot, found themselves on opposite sides of the court this year as their girls' basketball teams both made it to the state finals in Hammond. The two have maintained a close friendship since playing on the same elementary school team over 30 years ago, and now they're inspiring the next generation of players in their rival programs.
Why it matters
The story of Whittington and Fontenot's enduring friendship and shared passion for coaching highlights the power of sports to bring communities together, even as their teams compete at the highest levels. Their story also demonstrates how lifelong bonds can transcend rivalries, setting an inspiring example for the student-athletes they mentor.
The details
Whittington and Fontenot were members of the same Bayou Chicot Boys Elementary basketball team back in 1991. Now, decades later, they find themselves leading the girls' basketball programs at Holy Savior Menard and Bell City, respectively, both of which made it to the state finals in Hammond this past season. Despite being competitors on the court, the two coaches have maintained a close friendship, often supporting each other's teams and sharing coaching strategies.
- Whittington and Fontenot were teammates on the Bayou Chicot Boys Elementary basketball team in 1991.
- This past season, their girls' basketball teams both reached the state finals in Hammond.
The players
Craig Whittington
The head girls' basketball coach at Holy Savior Menard High School, Whittington has been friends with Fontenot since they were children playing on the same elementary school team.
Tracy Fontenot
The head girls' basketball coach at Bell City High School, Fontenot has maintained a lifelong friendship with Whittington, his former elementary school teammate.
What they’re saying
“Friendships last forever. This statement may be a cliché, but two Bayou Chicot natives are living that out as they continue to impact young lives on the basketball court.”
— Tony Marks, Editor
The takeaway
The story of Whittington and Fontenot's enduring friendship and shared passion for coaching basketball serves as an inspiring example of how sports can bring people together, even in the face of fierce competition. Their story demonstrates the power of lifelong bonds to transcend rivalries and positively influence the lives of young athletes.
