Davis coaches in Indonesia/draws from local experts 

By Joseph Fondren 

Sports Connection Team 

During a presentation to the Blytheville Lions Club last week, Michael Davis spoke not only on life in Indonesia but, according to his wife Alithia, about his most proud accomplishment, being the head basketball coach for the Bandung Alliance Intercultural School. 

Michael Davis’ team won the HSSAC Boys Basketball championship in 2023 and 2024.

According to Davis, the school has roughly 70 kids in grades 9-12th; however, compete against schools much larger. 

In his two years as head coach for Bandung, Davis has a record of 31 wins against 12 defeats. 

Davis explained his teams do a run and gun type offense hoping for as many open three-point baskets as possible. 

However, the fundamentals to the flex break that he learned in his high school days are the key. 

Davis added in Indonesia the rules are FIBA rules, or Olympic style of play. 

Davis added the impact from local coaches has had on his coaching career in legendary coaches Danny Williams, the late Mike Ledbetter, David Hixson and McKenzie Pierce. 

“The biggest thing I’ve learned from all of the coaches I’ve been around is to invest in the players. I really love spending time encouraging the students and helping them to play hard, but more importantly, helping them to become better men,” Davis explained.

“Having Coach Williams, who I knew was praying over all of us. Then seeing Hixson and how he loved the kids, and was able to invest in the community and families of the players. I finished my time in Blytheville with Coach Pierce and watching both his confidence and humility in how he approached coaching. He and Lena constantly loving the boys and doing whatever it takes to help them thrive in life.”

Davis continued, “And that’s not to even mention my other coaches: Mike Ledbetter for rebounding; Mike Julian for hard, aggressive defense; Jerry Austin for running drills to perfection.”

Pierce told the Sports Connection he’s proud of his former co-workers and the impact that Michael is having on the youth in Indonesia. 

“Really proud of Michael and the Davis family for the work they are doing overseas,” said Pierce. “We certainly miss them here in Blytheville but are so proud of them for listening to what God has called them to do and making an impact on the youth in Indonesia and seeing them use basketball as another way to share the word is just awesome to see!”