Brandon Roy, a beloved figure in Portland Trail Blazers history and a celebrated high school coach, found himself at the center of controversy last fall when he was dismissed as head coach of the boys’ basketball team at Garfield High School in Seattle. The specifics behind his dismissal remained under wraps until recently, when reports surfaced linking his departure to recruiting allegations.
According to recent revelations, Roy was implicated in a recruiting effort involving an NBA agent who allegedly offered a student enticing incentives-cash, a car, and an apartment-to transfer to Garfield. Despite these serious allegations, Roy, 41, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In a letter to Seattle Public Schools, he refuted the claims, yet was let go just two days later.
Roy shared his perspective with The Seattle Times, stating unequivocally, “I’ve never recruited a kid to play at Garfield High School.” He further expanded on this in a text message to Blazer’s Edge, emphasizing that the mother of the student involved had informed the school’s investigator that the allegations were false. Roy pointed out that neither he nor his staff had any contact with the student or his family, a detail he claims was omitted from official reports.
As of now, no conclusive findings have been issued by Seattle Public Schools, the Metro League, or the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA). The WIAA Executive Board is set to review the allegations later this month. Roy, meanwhile, is contemplating a return to coaching and is considering legal action against the district.
Roy’s coaching journey began in 2016 at Nathan Hale High School, where he led the team to an undefeated season and a state championship, earning him the Naismith National High School Coach of the Year award. He later returned to his alma mater, Garfield, where his teams secured state titles in 2018, 2020, and 2023. His legacy at Garfield is cemented with his number retired and a mural in his honor.
Before stepping into coaching, Roy made waves in the NBA as the sixth overall pick in the 2006 draft. During his five seasons with the Trail Blazers, he averaged 19.0 points per game and earned accolades as a three-time NBA All-Star and the 2007 NBA Rookie of the Year.
Known as “The Natural,” Roy’s promising career was cut short by chronic knee issues, leading to his retirement in 2011. He attempted a brief comeback with the Timberwolves in 2012, but it was halted by injury after just five games.
Roy’s story is one of immense talent and resilience, both on the court and on the sidelines. As the situation unfolds, fans and followers of his storied career will be watching closely.