Bishop Manogue Names Luke Babbitt Head Boys Basketball Coach
Luke Babbitt, Bishop Manogue Boys Basketball Head Coach
Former NBA player and Reno-local, Luke Babbitt has been announced as the new boys varsity head basketball coach for Bishop Manogue Catholic High School. Babbitt brings eight years of professional playing experience and comes to Bishop Manogue with a fresh perspective on creating a successful basketball program.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to be the next boys head basketball coach at Bishop Manogue Catholic High School,” said Babbitt. “Bishop Manogue’s academics and athletics are second to none and I’m looking forward to building on a great foundation and basketball program. The skills I learned throughout my career, both on and off the court, are something I’m excited to share with the next generation.”
On Wednesday morning, in the Bishop Manogue school chapel, President Matt Schambari and Principal Brianne Thoreson introduced the basketball athletes to their new head coach. Players had the opportunity to hear from Babbitt, ask questions, and introduce themselves.
“When hiring a new head basketball coach, our number one goal and focus are the kids,” said BMCHS President, Matt Schambari. “With Luke having the experience of playing at all three levels, he can provide a unique insight and share his passion for the game, while working hard and making it a joyful experience for these young men. We look forward to welcoming Luke as a part of the Bishop Manogue family.”
Originally born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Babbitt’s family moved to Reno when Babbitt was nine. He played high school basketball at Galena where he was a three-time first-team all-state athlete, named two-time Gatorade state player of the year, and helped lead the Grizzlies to a state championship. Named McDonald’s All-American his senior year, he broke the Nevada state record for career points at 2,941. Babbitt then received a full-ride basketball scholarship to the University of Nevada, Reno, and played for the Wolf Pack for two seasons before declaring for the NBA draft in 2010. During his two seasons with Nevada, Babbitt led the team in scoring and rebounding, was a two-time first-team All-WAC selection, all-district honoree, second-team academic All-American, and broke a number of school records including single-season scoring. During the 2010 NBA Draft, he was drafted as a 16th overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves and was immediately traded to the Portland Trail Blazers where he signed a rookie contract. Babbitt went on to play in the NBA for eight years, playing for the Miami Heat, Portland Trail Blazers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Atlanta Hawks. In 2020, Babbitt was inducted into the UNR Athletic Hall of Fame.
“The Reno community was so supportive of my career and I’m excited to give back in this capacity,” said Babbitt. “Growing up down the street from Manogue makes this even more special for me and I can’t wait to get started.”
