A Fresh Coaching Direction
Justin Avalos, a 2015 Irvin High School graduate and former professional player in Mexico, has been named the new head coach of the Eastlake High School boys basketball program. The appointment was announced this week, marking a return to the El Paso area for a coach who has already proven his ability to reshape a program in just a few seasons.
Avalos spent three years at El Dorado High School, where he guided the team to the Class 5A Texas UIL playoffs twice and lifted the program from a six‑win season to a 21‑win campaign. His work at El Dorado earned him a reputation as a turnaround specialist, a track record that Eastlake’s athletic director cited when making the hiring decision.
Before coming to Eastlake, Avalos honed his coaching chops as an assistant at Franklin High School for three years and also gained experience as a player abroad. He has spoken openly about his respect for the program’s former coach, Matthew Taylor, and about the responsibility he feels to build on the successes Taylor left behind.
Building on a Winning Tradition
Eastlake has been a consistent playoff contender, reaching the state tournament in each of the past three seasons, and the coaching staff and players are eager to keep that momentum alive. Junior forward Caleb Gutierrez, who has been a key contributor for the Eagles, said he is excited to work with Avalos and to help the team aim for a deep run in the 2027 playoffs.
The new coaching staff is already planning offseason workouts and player development sessions, with the goal of maintaining the program’s competitive edge while fostering a culture of accountability and growth. Avalos emphasized that the team’s ambition is not just to make the playoffs, but to contend for a state title, a vision that resonates with the senior class and the underclassmen alike.