Montverde, FL (May 23, 2025) – Montverde Academy has announced the hiring of Anthony Jones as the Head Coach of its nationally renowned girls' basketball program. Jones brings more than two decades of coaching experience, a winning pedigree and a proven track record of developing championship-caliber girls basketball teams.
Jones joins Montverde Academy following a storied tenure at Dr. Phillips High School in nearby Orlando, where he served on the girls' basketball coaching staff since 2001. After starting his career as an assistant, he was promoted to Head Coach in 2008 which is where he has been since. Under Jones' leadership, the Panthers captured six Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) state championships (2011, 2012, 2013, 2022, 2023, 2024), two High School National Championships (2011, 2013), and a national runner up finish in 2012. This past season, he guided Dr. Phillips to the FHSAA Class 7A state championship runner-up.
Jones is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and respected basketball coaches in the state of Florida and beyond. His accolades include being a five-time Florida Dairy Farmers Coach of the Year (2012, 2013, 2022, 2023, 2024), a two-time National Federation of High Schools (NFHS) Florida Coach of the Year (2011, 2023), as well as numerous other awards.
"We are thrilled to welcome Coach Jones to our school community. His passion for the game, commitment to developing student-athletes, and focus on building a strong, connected program makes him the ideal leader for our girls' basketball program," said Director of Athletic Operations Khrystal Phiri. "Coach Jones not only brings a wealth of basketball knowledge and experience, but also a deep understanding of how sports can shape character, build confidence, and strengthen community. We're excited for the growth ahead — both on and off the court — under his leadership."
Coach Jones holds a bachelor's degree in Recreation and Programming from the University of Florida and maintains certifications in athletic coaching, CPR/First Aid, and event management. He is also the event manager for the Orlando Sports Foundation, where he helped launch the Central Florida Cure 4 Cancer Senior All-Star Games for basketball and flag football.
"I'm looking forward to joining the team at Montverde Academy. I played against during my time at Dr. Phillips, and I have seen the program progress a lot through the years," said Coach Jones. "The opportunity presented itself and the timing was right. I am excited to keep the Eagle tradition going."
Jones will take the reigns of a girls' basketball program that has appeared in the Chipotle High School National championship game the last four years, including victories in 2022, 2023 and 2024. Last season the Eagles finished 26-2 overall and had three players earn All-America status.
About Montverde Academy:
Montverde Academy is a private, independent college preparatory school for grades Pre-K3 through post-graduate studies, with a boarding program serving grades 7-12 representing 70+ nationalities. Our mission is to inspire students to become knowledgeable leaders with global vision and passion for learning, in a disciplined and diverse community that nurtures character development. For more information, visit us online at Montverde.org and at MVASports.com.
