THE VILLAGES, Fla. — The Villages Charter School head basketball coach Colt McDowell reached a major milestone, securing his 200th career victory as the Buffalo defeated Williston 76-61 in the final game of the regular season.

McDowell, who has helmed The Villages’ program for a decade now, has built the Buffalo into a powerhouse in Florida high school basketball. His 200th win is a testament to both his coaching acumen and the program’s sustained success under his leadership. I have personally seen the program rise from modest beginnings in 2015 to becoming one of the top programs in Central Florida. The growth is astounding and McDowell along with his staff and players are a big reason for the success.

(Colt McDowell now has 200 career wins for The Villages Charter boys basketball program. Photo Credit – VHS Buffalo Athletics.)

I had the chance to talk with McDowell recently and the one thing you can always expect is an unselfish attitude “This isn’t about me—this is about the players who have come through this program, the coaches I’ve worked with, and the community that supports us,” McDowell said. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

The Buffalo who are 20-5 currently, showcased the offensive firepower they have had all season long against Williston, with standout performances from Adyn Corbin a senior who is committed to Daytona State College and Aaron Britt Jr. The Villages are now focusing on trying to win a district championship this week.

McDowell’s tenure at The Villages has been marked by district championships, state playoff appearances, final four apperances and a state championship runner-up finish. He has helped the development of numerous players who have gone on to play at the NCAA Division 1 collegiate level and the NBA. His impact extends beyond the court, as he is widely respected for instilling discipline, teamwork, and a strong work ethic in his athletes.

(Coach McDowell watches on during a VHS vs Wildwood game in 2024. Photo Credit – Joe Ott.)

“I believe in the truths of the Bible. Anyone who konws me, knows I fall short of the ideals it teaches. Thankful that Jesus died for all my sins, short comings, & failures. Also, greatful God gives me another day each day to repent & learn how to love him & others better,” says McDowell. Often times when I ask Colt McDowell “How are you?” his response is simple but carries much weight with it, “Kyle I am better than I deserve to be,” he says. It always warms my heart when I hear that and I take comfort in the fact that coach McDowell uses this to express a sense of gratitude for good things in his life. This rubs off on the people around him constantly.

Having watched Colt McDowell coach The Villages the past eight years that I have been in the area, his dedication to the student-athletes is second to none. He’s not just a great coach—he’s a great mentor and leader to these young men. It’s not just on the court either, he is constantly helping clean up, put basketballs out on the floor for girls players, give advice and he even wipes floors down during freshman or JV games. It’s the small things like that which go a long way.

With his 200th victory now in the books, McDowell remains focused on the bigger picture: continuing to build a winning culture at The Villages and striving for the program’s ultimate goal—a state championship.

Main Photo Credit – VHS Buffalo Athletics