A Sudden Departure
Damin Lopez has resigned as the head boys basketball coach at St. Mary’s Catholic High School in Phoenix, Arizona, ending a nine‑year stint that reshaped the program’s national profile. The announcement came just weeks after the team’s run to the Open Division runner‑up spot in the 2025‑26 season, a surprise that left the school community scrambling for a replacement.
A Record to Remember
Under Lopez’s guidance the Knights amassed 175 victories, captured a No. 23 national ranking according to the 2025 Massey Rankings, and finished the season with a 23‑7 record. The team’s ascent was underscored by a stunning upset of the No. 8 ranked Millennium Tigers in the AIA Open Division semifinals, a game that featured a buzzer‑beating three‑pointer by junior guard Mick Riordan.
The Buzzer‑Beater That Echoed
With seconds left on the clock, Riordan launched a three‑point shot that swished through the net, sealing a victory that reverberated across Arizona’s high school basketball circles. The play not only highlighted the team’s clutch performance but also cemented the Knights’ reputation as a formidable opponent to nationally ranked squads.
Looking Ahead
The school’s administration has begun a nationwide search for Lopez’s successor, emphasizing the need for a coach who can preserve the program’s spiritual foundation, academic rigor, and competitive edge. While the vacancy represents a significant challenge, insiders believe the Knights’ recent successes have positioned them to attract top talent and continue their ascent in Arizona’s high school sports landscape.