Wise, VA - UVa-Wise women's basketball coach Jason Montgomery has resigned. The first year coach is leaving the university to become the girl's basketball coach at McKeel Academy of Technology in Lakeland, Florida. 

According to Montgomery:

"Going to McKeel is a great opportunity, having worked in the area before my wife and I have several friends in the community. My daughter, Taylor, and my son Tate will also be students at McKeel."

In his lone season at UVa-Wise, Montgomery directed the Highland Cavaliers to a 16-13 record. The Cavs advanced to the semi-finals of the Appalachian Athletic Conference Tournament before falling to eventual tournament runner up Union College. 

Next season, the Cavaliers will face a transition year as the squad moves to the Mid-South Conference. The team will return four of its five starters from last season including All-AAC performers Amber Carter and Kristin Mullins. The team will also feature transfers Hannah Powers and Valorie Blackwood. Powers, a point guard played last season at Chattanooga State while Blackwood, a post player played at Conners State in Oklahoma one year ago. 

Assistant coach Doug Carter has been named the interim coach in wake of Montgomery's departure. Carter, originally hired under Rachel Clay-Keohane's staff has been a part of the women's basketball program for three seasons. The Williamsport, Pennsylvania native also serves as the schools men's and women's cross country coach.