James A. Lunsford is a name that resonates deep within the Baldwin County School community. He is an alumnus of Baldwin (Boddie) High School, graduating in 1962, and has left a legacy that is still celebrated today. As the first Black Head Coach at Baldwin High School to win a State Championship, Lunsford's contributions to the school's basketball program cannot be overstated.
"Any of the achievements that you have are because of the guidance you're given, and I know that there are some tremendous teachers and educators that have been through the Baldwin School system," Lunsford said, commending both those who had helped him as a student and those he's known during his 30 years as a coach.
Lunsford's success as a coach is evident in the over 400 student-athletes who received college scholarships across the country while participating in the Baldwin Basketball program. He was dedicated to developing not just great basketball players but great people as well. His efforts were recognized when he was nominated for the 2021 Georgia High School Hall of Fame.
"I’m a Life Member of the Albany State Alumni Association, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, and in the Albany Sports Hall of Fame," Lunsford said, "I've received a Master's Degree from Georgia College. I've been able to win over 1000 games and, more importantly, been able to influence hundreds of young people's lives." In addition to this, Lunsford has won multiple Georgia High School Coach of the Year awards, and is a Sports Hall of Fame nominee.
In addition to his coaching achievements, Lunsford has been an advocate for education and personal growth, receiving a 2019 Dedication to Youth Award from Flagg Baptist Church where he is a member. He developed the Georgia State Housing Authority Basketball Tournament for the State of Georgia for students who did not participate in high school basketball. This program included drug prevention classes, career planning, and other activities to develop the total person. His commitment to helping students reach their full potential is an inspiration to all who knew him. "When I went to Albany State, and I played athletics, I also got involved in coaching within the community. I got involved with the Boys and Girls Club. I was one of the first coaches on staff to coach women's athletics, even as a student athlete myself."
Lunsford's contributions to Baldwin High School are still celebrated today. The school's gymnasium was named in his honor in 2020, a fitting tribute to a man who left such a lasting impact on the community. We take great pride in James A. Lunsford's accomplishments and the role he has played in shaping the future of our school. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Baldwin High School students to strive for excellence both on and off the court.
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