White County’s Bella Winningham Signs With Johnson University

By Michael Lindsay

White County High School senior Bella Winningham made her college basketball plans official earlier this week as she signed with Johnson University.

“It feels great,” said Winningham. “I’ve been working towards this moment since I was a little girl. I love coach Bryon Lawhon (Johnson head coach), and the campus and facilities; I knew Johnson was the one. I didn’t want to be stressed throughout my senior year, so I wanted to get it done before the season.”

Winningham is a rising senior guard for the Warriorettes, who went 32-4 last season and made the Class 3A state tournament quarterfinals.

“Anytime you have a kid go to the next level, it’s a great opportunity and not only good for her, but good for our school,” said White County head coach Michael Dodgen. “She can score at all three levels; she’s known for shooting, but she’s really developed her game and can get to the rim.”

The Warriorettes tip off the 2025-’26 season on Thursday, Nov. 20 at Pearl Cohn.