Another phenomenal season has come to an end for the Riordan Boys Varsity Basketball team.
Though the Crusaders were unable to make a second straight appearance in the CIF Open Division State Championships, ultimately falling to Salesian College Prep in overtime 54-59, this season was highlighted by record breaking performances.
In February, the team broke the streak for most consecutive WCAL wins, a record previously held by Riordan teams from 1984- 1988.
With a record 43 straight wins and counting, they’ll look to defend that streak next season.
Later that same month, Coach Joey Curtin ’01 won his 195th game as head coach, which ranks second all time in Riordan history. Over his last nine seasons, the team has won a historic 78.3 percent of games, showcasing his immense coaching prowess.
Over his last nine seasons, the team has won a historic 78.3 percent of games, showcasing his immense coaching prowess.
Coach Curtin said, “I would describe the season as exciting and resilient. We had some challenges we had to face during
the year but pulled through and had some tremendous moments and epic games.”
Of all the spectacular games this past season, Coach Curtin highlighted the games against school rivals, St. Ignatius, as the most memorable.
“My favorite moments were all three games against SI. They were all different types of games and all great in their own way.”
He added, “The CCS final was such a statement win. Winning our third straight Open Championship and it being the
first time in school history to win three straight CCS titles was truly special.”
Star forward Andrew Hilman ’26 echoed the sentiment, saying, “The double overtime against SI was a great moment, great game, and it was also on senior night. It couldn’t have been better.”
As their careers on the Riordan Basketball Team comes to a close, senior player Hilman reflected on his time here.
Hilman said, “A lesson that I learned is enjoy every single moment and be better every single day because you cannot take back the hour you lost so enjoy the great community.”
He added, “Enjoy the great coaching staff, enjoy the great teachers and be better. One hundred percent every single
day.”
As this season ends and another beckons, Coach Curtin had a few words for the graduating seniors,
saying, “For the departing seniors the message is straightforward. Thank you and remember this will always be your home. You gave it your all and left your mark on the school and program.”
For the returning players, he added, “For the returners it is simply to carry on the tradition of excellence. The standard has been set. Carry it forward.”
