Ernest Baskerville, the longtime coach of the South Pasadena High School boys basketball team, announced his resignation after seven seasons, saying the program needed a new direction.
During his tenure he compiled a 121‑71 record, captured three Rio Hondo League titles and guided 13 athletes to college scholarships, a milestone he repeatedly highlighted as a source of pride.
The Tigers posted a winning record in every season under Baskerville except the most recent, when they slipped to 13‑15 and missed the playoffs, ending a streak of consistent success that had placed the program among the top teams in the San Gabriel Valley.
Before arriving in South Pasadena, Baskerville coached at Los Angeles CES, where he led the team to five CIF‑SS championship games and secured one title, contributing to a 379‑win career that spans 24 years.
A Ten‑Year Vision Realized
Baskerville had spoken of a 10‑year plan that aimed to restore the program’s reputation and ultimately chase a CIF championship, a goal that remained unfulfilled but left the school markedly stronger than when he started.
Looking Ahead
When asked about his next steps, Baskerville said he is unsure whether he will return to coaching soon, noting that his son is preparing for high school and that the decision will depend on future opportunities. Administrators at Pasadena High School have indicated they may consider him if he decides to re‑enter the coaching market after Tony Brooks' retirement.