Jordan Panthers name Allen Caveness as new boys' basketball head coach
The Jordan Panthers have announced the appointment of Allen Caveness as the program’s new head coach for the varsity boys' basketball team, a move that caps a whirlwind week for the school’s athletic department. Caveness, a longtime figure in Southern California basketball, was selected after a national search that highlighted the administration’s vision of sustained excellence and community engagement.
Caveness, who previously served as an assistant at Long Beach State and head coach at St. Anthony High, St. Monica High and other local programs, said the school’s recent on‑court achievements — including a CIF‑Southern Section championship in 2023 and a quarterfinal run the following year — made the opportunity impossible to pass up. He also cited the prospect of mentoring a talented roster as a key draw, noting that a return to the Long Beach area was a decisive factor in his decision.
The new coach will continue to hold practices and games at nearby facilities while the team’s permanent gymnasium undergoes construction, a temporary arrangement that underscores the program’s commitment to continuity despite infrastructural delays. Caveness, a veteran of the Drew League since 2007, emphasized his long‑standing relationships with local players and his desire to foster lifelong connections with his athletes.
Beyond his coaching résumé, which includes a Big West regular‑season title with Long Beach State in 2022, Caveness is celebrated for his ability to build strong rapport with young athletes. Former players and colleagues alike point to his mentorship style as a catalyst for personal growth both on and off the court, a philosophy that aligns with Jordan’s broader educational mission.