Texas Basketball Coach Legend Retires After Nearly Six Decade Career

An El Paso, TX Basketball legend is retiring after what can only be called a successful era of coaching!

I was lucky enough to be a student at Montwood High School during the Coach Tony Harper era. Games were always such a vibe because Coach Harper knew how to bring out the best in his athletes. His passion for the game was evident every time his team hit the court. 

Students had nothing but respect for him—not just as a coach, but as an educator and mentor.

Even years later, some of my high school friends who played under him still speak highly of his guidance, proving just how much of a lasting impact he’s had.

After an incredible coaching career spanning nearly six decades, Harper is officially retiring

The Cathedral High School coach confirmed that Tuesday’s home game against Lydia Patterson would be his last, and his final game would be a winning game as Cathedral defeated the Patterson Institute to send coach Harper off with one final victory to add to his win total of 1,159 wins.

Harper, 80, is A UTEP alum who learned under the legendary Don Haskins, he began coaching in his 20’s, making stops at Burges, El Paso High, and Montwood before leading Cathedral for the past 11 seasons.

“It’s been a great and fun time,” Harper told the El Paso Times. “There are a lot of emotions, but now I get to spend more time with my right-hand partner, my wife Andree.”

Harper is a member of the El Paso Athletic Hall of Fame as well as the Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame.

Mr. Harper was coach to an impress list of college standouts that I was proud to call high school friends like Roman Martinez (New Mexico), Nathan Hedgecock (Army). 

Harper's impact goes beyond the court, shaping generations of El Paso athletes and I am almost positive that he will be missed by students, parents, fellow co-workers and more, but it’s time for coach Harper to take some time for himself and his family.

Enjoy retirement, Coach!

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