Shamar Hill Named New Peoria High Girls Basketball Coach

Hiring Details and Timeline

Shamar Hill has taken over the Peoria High girls basketball program, officially announced on July 2. He replaces longtime coach Meechie Edwards, who stepped down in May after 19 seasons and amassed 310 wins. Hill recently resigned from Richwoods, citing family reasons, after a three‑year stretch that produced 59 victories and a regional title. After Edwards’ departure, Hill waited a few weeks before submitting his application, went through the interview process, and accepted the role before meeting his new team at a summer league game. His coaching journey began almost a decade ago when he joined Edwards’ staff at Central.

During his brief tenure at Richwoods, Hill led the Knights to a Class 4A Sweet Sixteen appearance, an undefeated Big 12 Conference campaign, and a 24‑5 overall record in the 2025‑26 season. He emphasizes a defensive‑first approach, vowing to bring toughness, hard work, competitiveness, and fundamentals to Peoria High. The transition to the opposite side of the bench will feel “weird” when Richwoods visits on Jan. 15, 2027, because of the strong relationships he built with players and staff. Hill’s experience at a successful program adds a new dynamic as he steps into a rebuilding role.

Peoria’s Current Situation and Outlook

Peoria High finished the 2025‑26 season with a 2‑22 overall mark and a 2‑8 record in Big 12 play. Their lone victories came against conference foes Danville and Urbana. Two rising stars—freshman Saniyah Jones and sophomore Ciara Stokes—were recognized on the all‑Big 12 team, with Jones earning second‑team honors. The hire of a local alum like Hill signals a commitment to rebuilding the program and reestablishing competitiveness in the conference. His defensive focus and community ties could accelerate progress, giving fans hope for an improved season ahead. Hill’s vision includes restoring fundamentals and a culture of hard work that the struggling roster badly needs.

In his own words, Hill aims to “bring toughness, hard work, competitiveness and fundamentals to the program,” noting that defense will drive everything else. With a solid résumé from Richwoods and deep roots in the area, he is positioned to shake up the Peoria High landscape. Whether he can turn the current 2‑22 record into a winning campaign will be a key metric for his first season. The community is watching closely as a hometown hero takes the reins of a program eager for a fresh start.