Poly Basketball Coach Brad Hall Celebrates 700 Wins

Poly celebrates the remarkable career of basketball Coach Brad Hall ’73 P ’27 ’24, who on February 7 counted his 700th win against Gabrielino High School. The CIF Southern Section Division 4AA playoffs game was celebrated by the Poly community, including Brad’s family and former players from his 40-year tenure as a coach.

“Coach Brad Hall has helped develop a truly special program that will reign as one of the most fundamental building blocks of life for many athletes as they pass through Poly,” said former player and CIF champion Swapnil Shah ’95. “I played for him in 1995, and now my son will hopefully play for him in 2025. The years fly by, but time can freeze when you step onto that Poly basketball court. So many memories past, and so many to still be had. Thank you, Coach, for teaching us all the important lessons that can’t be learned in a classroom.”

Also present for Brad’s 700th win was fellow CIF ’95 champion Dave Newhall ’95, who fondly recalled Swapnil’s jump shot that gave the team its first lead in the second half of its championship-winning game. “Brad had a gift for putting his players in positions to succeed, and allowing them the freedom and trust to problem-solve on the court. His unwavering confident presence on the sideline was contagious, and contributed mightily to us being able to work through challenges, and to perform at our best during the most tense of moments.”

Brad, a humble leader who shies away from the spotlight, credits his success to the players who power his team. In an interview with the San Gabriel Valley Tribune he shared, “Each season is about the players. My wins, my records, they’re nothing without them.”

He is one of the most successful coaches in the area, earning his fourth CIF championship in 2021. Under his leadership, Poly has also won 12 league championships.

Director of Athletics Scott Bello said, "While we are all extremely proud and excited about Coach Hall's 700th victory, the impact that he has had on the lives of his players far exceeds that number. During his time at Poly, Coach Hall has taught resilience, teamwork, and character to his players. His wins are not merely numbers; they are a testament to the countless lives he’s touched.”

We look forward to many more seasons of Coach Brad Hall’s leadership on and off the court.