A New Chapter for the Cardinals
Gabriel Gonzales, 42, has been named the new boys basketball coach for Santa Cruz High, stepping into a program that blends a storied past with a promising future.
A Legacy of Success
The Cardinals boast a rich basketball heritage, having captured three Central Coast Section championships and a state title in 2005, a legacy that Gonzales says he is eager to honor.
He replaces Lawan Milhouse, who retired after two decades at the helm, leaving behind a foundation built on consistency and community engagement.
Gonzales’ journey to Santa Cruz began at Scotts Valley High, where he coached both the girls and boys teams for four seasons before deciding to move on due to health and family considerations.
During his tenure at Scotts Valley, he worked directly with many of the players he now inherits, giving him a head start on chemistry and potential.
The team has already been active in the offseason, attending a camp at UC Santa Barbara and competing in the Santa Clara Summer League, signaling a busy preparation schedule.
Gonzales emphasizes building character alongside skill development, stating his commitment to respecting the school’s tradition while fielding competitive squads in league and section play.
With several returning veterans and a influx of new talent, he expresses optimism that the Cardinals can contend for top spots in the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League and beyond.
A 2002 graduate of Gilroy High, Gonzales also excelled in baseball at the collegiate level, an athletic background he says informs his coaching philosophy.