Brandon Roy is set to return to Garfield High School this summer as the new head coach of the boys basketball program for the 2026‑27 school year, bringing with him a legacy that blends NBA experience with deep roots in Seattle’s Central District.
A Homecoming for a Seattle Legend
Roy, a Garfield graduate who once dazzled the NBA with his playmaking and leadership, said the decision to come back was driven by a desire to mentor the next generation of student‑athletes and to reinforce the school’s commitment to academic excellence.
The hiring process followed Seattle Public Schools’ standard procedures, and the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association conducted a review of the program without uncovering any violations. During the interim year, Roy refrained from coaching while the review was underway, allowing the school to ensure compliance before his appointment.
Superintendent Ben Shuldiner emphasized that the hire aligns with a broader vision of supporting student‑athletes holistically, balancing athletic ambition with academic rigor and community engagement.
A Vision for Student‑Athlete Success
Principal Dr. Tarance Hart highlighted that leadership at Garfield must reflect the school’s core values of integrity, accountability and clear communication with families, and Roy’s appointment was presented as a strategic fit for those priorities.
The district’s statement underscores a focus on student achievement, family involvement and a positive school environment, signaling that the basketball program will be integrated into a larger effort to nurture well‑rounded scholars.