Robbie Graham named NFHS Coach of the Year
- Shanda Crosby
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Coach Robbie Graham isn’t much on discussing his accolades, but they keep piling up anyway.
The winningest coach in GRC girls’ basketball history has been named Kentucky Coach of the Year by the NFHS Coaches Association.
True to his humble nature, Coach Graham quickly deflects the spotlight.
“I don't chase individual awards because it's not about me; it's about us – our program,” he said. “When you work with great kids, a great staff, and a supportive administration, it makes it easy to come to work and do what I love to do.”
In a county where high school basketball is more than just a game, Coach Graham is a perfect fit. All he does is win … and win some more.
While doing that, he achieves something greater – instilling in his athletes how to win at life.
With nearly three decades as a coach, including 14 years leading GRC Hoops, Graham has become a pillar of the community, not only for his winning record but for the culture of commitment, toughness, and character he shapes in his athletes.
“Being a good person doesn’t take talent; it’s a decision,” he said. “And it’s something we expect just as much as we expect hustle in practice.”
A standout high school athlete at Fleming County High School, Graham was recruited to play at Vanderbilt University under legendary coach C.M. Newton.
But life, as it often does, had other plans. Injuries and family responsibilities brought him back home, where he continued his education at Morehead State University and ultimately found his calling on the sidelines.
Under Graham's leadership, GRC Hoops has evolved into a perennial powerhouse, winning more than 300 games, 12 district championships, nine 10th Region championships, three Sweet 16 final fours, and finishing as state runner-up in 2025.
With an eye on another championship run, Graham’s team is already deep into off-season conditioning, from weight room sessions to track workouts and intense fundamentals.
“Nobody’s going anywhere for Fall Break,” Graham laughed. “They told their parents — we’re staying here for basketball. That kind of commitment and attitude is special.”
This year’s GRC Hoops motto is simple: “Gold ball, not silver.” After a runner-up finish last season, the mission is clear — win four games at Rupp Arena, cut down the nets, and bring home the state title.
Having a top ranking — and the target that comes with it — is exactly the way Coach Graham wants it.
“That’s why we wake up in the morning. That’s what it’s all about — the challenge. People are coming for us, and we embrace that,” he said.
Coach Graham is known for his success on the court — but he’s revered for how he develops his players off of it.
Ask anyone in Clark County what sets him apart, and you’ll likely hear the same thing: his ability to mold young women into not just better athletes, but better people.
“We hang our hat on being great people,” Graham said. “High character. Working hard in the classroom. And being the best version of yourself on the court. That’s the culture.”
It’s a philosophy rooted in a lesson Graham learned as a 12-year-old.
“My middle school principal called me into his office on the very first day of school,” he recalled. “He told me: Always be the best person you can be. Be the best student you can be. And be the best athlete you can be — in that order. I’ve carried that with me ever since.”
In Clark County, Coach Robbie Graham is not just coaching a basketball team — he’s shaping futures.
“Coach Robbie Graham truly exemplifies the portrait of a Clark County learner,” said Superintendent Dustin Howard. “He’s an empowered leader, resilient learner, effective communicator, reflective innovator, engaged citizen, and a commit collaborator. Furthermore, he is a role model for our students, staff, and our community. His continued success is an example of what simply doing the right thing each and every day will lead to with commitment, hard work, and a huge heart for our kids. I’m proud to call Robbie Graham Coach of the Year and even more proud to call him my friend!”
As for Coach Graham, no recognition is complete without sharing it with his family.
“I have to give my wife and kids a huge shout out,” he said. “Deena is a true coach’s wife, holding down our family to allow me to coach all these years and always there supporting me. And my children – Lexxus, Jordan, & Aaliyah – have sacrificed as much as anyone. I love and appreciate my family so much. I am truly grateful and blessed.”
Congratulations, Coach, on this well-deserved honor.
COACH GRAHAM AT THE STATE TOURNAMENT
(all photos by CCPS)
