TOP PHOTO: In a game from January, Cora Browning posts up against Central. The versatile Browning plays at the point, in the post and on the wing.

JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF) – “She’s phenomenal,” said Margetta Cox. “I’m thankful she’s had this wonderful offer,” added Jerry Cox. Proud grandparents of Campbell High Lady Cougar Cora Browning, Margetta and Jerry were front and center Tuesday when their granddaughter signed scholarship papers to play basketball for Milligan University.

The grandparents were among the first to arrive to the CCHS library on Tuesday morning; long before players, coaches and fans made it there. It’s been quite the journey for the grandparents who were there for Cora’s very first game in Junior Pro as a Kindergartner and then travel ball by fourth grade.

“This brings back a lot of memories of Jill. I barely remember Jill’s signing,” said Jerry. Jill and Ryan Browning, both former college athletes, are Cora’s parents. Jill signed 30 years ago with the University of the Cumberlands, then Cumberland College. She had just led her Lady Cougar team to its first and, so far, only state tournament appearance.

“She (Cora) plays a lot like Jill, but there’s a difference. She’s pretty defensive minded. But her offense is coming along,” said Jerry.

Cora Browning’s Campbell High School coach, Jason Kitts, and papaw, Jerry Cox, chuckle as they both said “I’m not a photo guy.”

No doubt Cora has worked hard for this opportunity according to Jerry Cox. “I’m proud to be alive to see this,” he noted.

“She’s a Christian, and this is a Christian school,” said her grandmother. Milligan is a Christ-centered liberal arts university between Johnson City and Elizabethton.

Cora, who plays all five positions, will bring a unique skill set to the Lady Buffaloes. At five-feet nine, her speed and athleticism are definite advantages. However, Milligan must wait another year before Cora slips on jersey number 24 in orange and black. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 10/20/2021-6AM)