Luke DallaRiva has been named the new head coach of the Gilbert Higley High School boys basketball program, taking over from David Grace, who departed for a coaching post at Florida Southwestern.
A Coach with a Proven Track Record
DallaRiva arrives after a distinguished stint at Scottsdale Notre Dame Prep, where he guided the team to the Open Division state semifinals in 2024 and compiled a 25‑5 record, the best in program history.
Higley’s recent campaign ended with a 19‑8 ledger and a loss in the Open Division state quarterfinals, a run that showcased the talent of a young roster featuring freshmen Marquise Pless and Isaiah Rider IV, as well as sophomore Michael McIntyre, who averaged double‑digit points.
Freshman Kaden Adams contributed 14 minutes per game and five points, while Michael McIntyre posted 11 points per outing, forming a core that the new coach hopes to expand.
Looking Ahead
In his introductory remarks, DallaRiva praised Higley’s emphasis on student development and highlighted the need to meet the expectations that come with a program on the rise.
The coach outlined a plan that blends competitive play with academic growth, promising to leverage the school’s strong community ties and its location in the Phoenix suburb of Gilbert to recruit local talent and foster a culture of discipline and teamwork.
Fans and alumni alike are eager to see how DallaRiva’s experience at Notre Dame Prep will translate to the Higley stage, where the program aims to extend its recent success and contend for deeper playoff runs.