Lauch Day is Here

Following a very encouraging “soft launch”, I am so excited that the formal launch has arrived. I really appreciate all of you who have read the book, given great feedback, and left heartfelt reviews. Please pray with me that God uses this book to help everyone who reads it get a vision of influence, mentorship, and the power of truth transferred in the context of a relationship.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 1, 2025

New Book “Billy” Chronicles the Extraordinary Life of Legendary High School Basketball Coach Billy Hicks

Kentucky’s own author and Harlan resident, John Wiley Bryson, today announces the release of “Billy: The Untold Story of Kentucky’s Winningest Coach”, the definitive biography of Kentucky basketball icon Billy Hicks, the winningest high school boys’ basketball coach in state history.

With more than 1,100 career victories, 12 regional titles, and two Kentucky state championships, Coach Billy Hicks turned Scott County High School into a national powerhouse. Billy goes far beyond the scoreboard, revealing the relentless work ethic, faith-driven leadership, and personal sacrifices that forged one of the greatest coaching careers in American sports history.

Published independently through Amazon KDP and available now in hardback, paperback, and Kindle, Billy has already earned rave reviews.

What Coaches, Players, and Reviewers Are Saying

• “Loved the behind-the-scenes on the 1998 and 2019 titles. Feels like a love letter to Kentucky hoops. Quick read, big impact.”

• “Inspirational! Hicks sounds like the coach everyone wishes they had. Bryson’s personal anecdotes make it authentic and engaging.”

• “Perfect blend of history, heart, and hoops. The retirement chapter had me smiling—fishing buddies and all. Top shelf.  If you love high school basketball, this is your book. Detailed stats without being dry. Bryson nails the coal-country vibe.”

• “A tribute that honors not just the wins, but the man. Chapter 12’s advice for coaches is gold. Grateful for this read.”

• “A masterclass in leadership. Every coach in America—basketball or  otherwise—should study what Billy Hicks built in Georgetown, Kentucky.”

• “I played for Coach Hicks. This book took me right back to those practices and locker rooms. It’s all there—the yelling, the love, the championships. Perfect.” Amazon Verified Purchase (former Scott County player)

• “An instant classic in Kentucky sports literature. Bryson writes with the pace of a fast break and the heart of a true fan. I laughed heartily and cried several times!”

• “Bryson honors his roots beautifully. Harlan County pride on every page.”

• “A heartfelt tribute that captures the essence of Coach Hicks and Eastern Kentucky basketball. Bryson’s storytelling makes you feel like you’re courtside. Highly recommend for any fan of a great story!”

Since its November 2025 release, Billy has spent time on Amazon’s Best Seller lists, including “New Releases,” “Southern Biographies,” “Basketball,” and has climbed into Amazon’s Top 100 in Basketball and Sports Biographies, holding a near-perfect, 4.9-star rating from verified reviews.

Book Details

Title: Billy: The Untold Story of Kentucky’s Winningest Coach

Author: Dr. John Wiley Bryson

Format: Hardback ($14.99) | Paperback ($9.99) | Kindle ($9.99)

Pages: 172

ISBN-13: 979-8866231105

Available worldwide on Amazon and select Kentucky bookstores, including Lexington’s Joseph-Beth

Amazon Link to Billy: https://tinyurl.com/TheBillyHicksBook

Media & Speaking Inquiries

John Wiley Bryson     Mobile # 606-505-4354

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.johnwileybryson.com

The author is available all month for any news stories, podcasts, interviews, etc.