Since 2021, Cooper has served as the Wayland Baptist University Head Women’s Basketball Coach, leading the Flying Queens to the national tournaments all four seasons. The team just ranked second in the nation in the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA), earning him the title as the 2025 South Region National Women’s Basketball D1 Coach of the Year. He also currently ranks fourth in the Wayland Baptist Women’s Basketball program for National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) national tournament wins.
“I have been fortunate to have had opportunities to see the inner workings of some of the most storied basketball programs in the South Plains. Throughout my journey, I’ve gained insight into what made programs like the Flying Queens so historically significant. Being part of a tradition of excellence has shaped my understanding of what it takes to build and sustain a successful program,” said Cooper.
Prior to the collegiate level, Cooper has 16 years of high school coaching experience in basketball, baseball, football, track, cross country, and golf across various north and west Texas school districts. During that time, his teams made playoffs every year including eight district championships, eight regional tournament appearances, three regional championships, one state semifinal championship, one state runner-up championship, and one state championship title.
“I am excited to be at the ground level of something new and use my experience to build what I believe will be one of the top athletic programs, not only on the South Plains but in the state,” said Cooper. “The chance to establish a strong foundation for Frenship Memorial High School's athletic programs, develop a positive culture, and make a lasting impact on student-athletes is incredibly exciting.”
Cooper will start his new position as the Frenship Memorial Girls Athletic Coordinator and Head Girls Basketball Coach in early April to begin meeting with students and other coaching staff before the new school opens in August. He says he’s excited for the unique opportunity to build a new program and to continue Frenship’s strong tradition of excellence.
“I want our parents and athletes to know that this program will be built on a foundation of hard work, respect, and teamwork. My goal is to help our student-athletes grow as individuals while competing at the highest level. I believe in developing the whole person — focusing on character, academics, and athletic excellence. Together, we will create a program that our school and community can be proud of,” said Cooper.
Cooper received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Wayland Baptist University, where he also played basketball and was named the All-American Player in 1999. Education and coaching run deep in his family. His wife, Amanda has been teaching in public education for 25 years, their daughter was a collegiate basketball player and is currently the Head Girls Basketball Coach at Lubbock Trinity Christian High School, and their son is a high school sophomore and dedicated basketball player.