🏀 Willis Brownlee Foundation – Media Page
About Us (Short Blurb)
The Willis Brownlee Foundation is dedicated to empowering youth through basketball, mentorship, and legacy-building. Rooted in the Gulf Coast and inspired by the legacy of Willie Brownlee, we’re laying bricks for the next generation — on and off the court.
From Chasing dreams to training dreamers
Coach Sunnie Palode Jr.
Mentor • Trainer • Coast Native
📍 Pearlington, MS | Hancock High • University of Southern Miss Alum
At 33, Coach Sunnie Palode Jr. has transitioned from chasing hoop dreams to helping others realize theirs. A proud Hancock High and USM alum, Sunnie now spends his time mentoring youth and collaborating with coaches across the Gulf Coast to build up the next generation of talent.
More than just a trainer, Sunnie is a guide — focused on character development, discipline, and unlocking each athlete’s full potential. Whether it’s footwork, fundamentals, or leadership, his approach prepares players for success on the court and in life.
“I had my time with the game. Now it’s about pouring into these kids and helping them reach what’s next.”
👦🏽 Following in His Footsteps: Malik Johnson
At just 12 years old, Sunnie’s son, Malik Johnson, is already embracing the process. A 7th grader at West Harrison Middle, Malik aspires to take his game to the pro level one day — but he’s focused on the present: learning the game, working as part of a team, and growing as a leader.
“It’s about learning what the game can teach you — not just how to play, but how to overcome, how to lead, and how to keep going.”
Together, Coach Sunnie and Malik represent what the Willis Brownlee Foundation is all about: Legacy. Leadership. Liftoff.
Community-driven. athlete-focused.
Terrence Thomas
Trainer • Mentor • Educator
📍 Pass Christian, MS | Pass High & Southeastern Louisiana Alum
A proud native of Pass Christian, MS, Terrence Thomas grew up as a multi-sport athlete with a passion for competition and community. A graduate of Pass Christian High School and Southeastern Louisiana University, Terrence has spent over a decade developing athletes at every level — from youth to college prospects.
With more than 10 years of experience in player development, coaching, and training, he’s worked with athletes across South Mississippi and Louisiana, helping them grow in both skill and mindset.
Terrence is currently serving in both the education system and sports programs at Pass Christian High School, where he continues to invest in the same community that once poured into him.
“My mission is to use sports as a tool to develop great athletes — but even better people. Discipline. Character. Leadership. That’s the formula.”
As a part of the Willis Brownlee Foundation, Coach Thomas is committed to building a culture of excellence that inspires the next generation of leaders through sport, mentorship, and legacy.
built to win. born to give back
Coach Stanley Magee
Trainer • Coach • Mentor
📍 Pass Christian, MS | Faulkner State CC • Stillman College Alum
Coach Stanley Magee is a proud product of Pass Christian, MS, and a graduate of Pass Christian High School. A former college athlete who competed at Faulkner State Community College and Stillman College, Coach Magee brings a winning mindset — having tasted victory at every level he’s played.
Now, he’s shifted his focus to giving that knowledge back to the youth of his hometown. From elementary to high school athletes, Coach Stanley trains, mentors, and coaches with one mission: to help the next generation be better than he was.
He currently serves as the Windows Warehouse Manager at Beach Lumber and is a former PE teacher, but his heart is always in the gym or on the field — coaching recreational sports across Pass Christian and Gulfport and training young athletes to build discipline, toughness, and leadership.
“It takes hard work. If it was easy, everybody would do it.”
👦🏾 Legacy in Motion: Stanley Magee III
Coach Magee’s son, Stanley Magee III, is following closely in his father’s footsteps. A standout 5th grader excelling in both basketball and football, Stanley is one of the top young athletes on the Gulf Coast. Just as passionate in the classroom as he is on the court, he’s focused, driven, and ready to take his game to the next level.
🎥 Featured Video: Happening July 18‑20 | Willis Brownlee Summer Basketball Camp – WLOX Coverage
About this video
This WLOX News spotlight (airing and uploaded around July 16, 2025) showcases the Willis Brownlee Foundation’s youth inaugural basketball and leadership camp, held on July 18–20 wlox.com+9wlox.com+9facebook.com+9. More than just drills, the feature captures the heart and mission of the camp—empowering local youth through sports, character-building, and mentorship.
