Jim Smiddy, a pioneering figure in the world of high school girls' basketball, embarked on a remarkable coaching career that spanned over four decades. Born on June 23, 1924, Smiddy originally served as a teacher and coach at Charleston High School from 1949 until 1957. His journey continued at Bradley Central High School, where he solidified his legacy from 1958 until 1993. During his illustrious tenure as a head girls' basketball coach, Smiddy amassed a record of 1,217 wins against just 206 losses.

His achievements on the court are nothing short of legendary. Under Smiddy's guidance, his teams captured five state championships (1962, 1970, 1973, 1975, 1976) and secured two mythical national titles (1975, 1976). In total, Smiddy's teams made 21 appearances at the state tournament, etching their mark in history with a 90-game winning streak between 1974 and 1977. His unparalleled success earned him the distinction of being the winningest girls' basketball coach in the history of the United States, a title he held even beyond his passing on July 19, 1995.

Smiddy's dedication and contributions to high school athletics were recognized by the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) when he was inducted into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1985. This honor celebrated not only his victories on the court but also his mentorship and positive impact on the lives of countless young athletes. Further accolades include his induction into the National High School Hall of Fame in 1992, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential figures in high school sports. Jim Smiddy remains a towering figure in the annals of TSSAA history, embodying the spirit of excellence and dedication.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1985
Category: Coach