DeMatha High School Basketball: A Legacy of Excellence and Notable Alumni

DeMatha Catholic High School, located in Hyattsville, Maryland, stands as a pillar of Catholic education and athletic prowess. Recognized by Sports Illustrated as the No. 1 high school athletic program in the nation, DeMatha has cultivated a rich tradition of excellence, particularly in basketball. With 41 state championships and six national titles, the school's basketball program is nationally recognized as one of the premier programs. This article delves into the remarkable history of DeMatha's basketball program and highlights some of its most notable alumni who have made significant contributions to the sport and beyond.

A Foundation of Faith and Scholarship

Founded as a four-year Catholic high school for boys, DeMatha's mission is to develop "Faith Filled Gentlemen & Scholars." The school's Hyattsville campus provides a college-preparatory education rooted in Roman Catholic values. This commitment to holistic development has produced not only exceptional athletes but also leaders in various fields.

The Morgan Wootten Era: Building a Basketball Dynasty

The late Morgan Wootten, DeMatha's legendary head coach, is synonymous with the school's basketball success. During his remarkable career, Wootten guided DeMatha to five national championships and amassed more victories than any other high school basketball coach in history. His influence extended far beyond the court, as he instilled values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance in his players.

Wootten's impact on the game was so profound that he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000, becoming the first high school coach to receive this honor. His legacy continues to inspire generations of DeMatha basketball players. Legendary Coach Morgan Wootten saw 14 of his former Stags make it to the NBA.

NBA Stars: A Pipeline to Professional Basketball

DeMatha Catholic High School has a long and storied tradition of producing exceptional basketball talent, with numerous alumni going on to achieve success in the National Basketball Association (NBA). At least one alum of DeMatha has been in the NBA in 48 out of the last 50 seasons. The school's rigorous basketball program, combined with its emphasis on academic excellence, has created a pipeline for aspiring NBA players.

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Adrian Dantley: A Hall of Fame Career

The most successful DeMatha basketball player to date is Hall of Famer Adrian Dantley. After his career at DeMatha, Dantley went on to play at Notre Dame where he played an important role in ending UCLA’s 88-game winning streak. He is most known for his time on the Utah Jazz, where he was a six-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA 2nd team selection.

Danny Ferry: From Duke to the NBA

Danny Ferry, a 1985 DeMatha graduate, had a successful NBA career after starring at Duke University.

Victor Oladipo: A Rising Star

Victor Oladipo, a 2010 DeMatha graduate, has become a prominent NBA player known for his athleticism and versatility.

Markelle Fultz: A No. 1 Draft Pick

Markelle Fultz, a 2016 DeMatha graduate, was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA draft, a testament to the school's ability to develop top-tier talent.

Other NBA Alumni

Other notable DeMatha basketball players include Kenny Carr, Jerami Grant, Jerian Grant, Keith Bogans, Joseph Forte and Quinn Cook.

Beyond the NBA: Success in College and Other Leagues

While the NBA is the ultimate goal for many DeMatha basketball players, the school has also produced numerous athletes who have excelled in college basketball and other professional leagues.

Hunter Dickinson: A Collegiate Standout

Hunter Dickinson, a 2020 DeMatha graduate, has made a name for himself in college basketball, playing for the University of Michigan and the University of Kansas. Dickinson, a 7-foot-2 center, was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2021 at Michigan where he spent three seasons before transferring to Kansas for his final two seasons of college. At Kansas, Dickinson was twice named First-team All-Big 12 and was the Big 12 Newcomer of the Year in 2024. He was also named Third-team All-American last season.

Steve Settle III: A Breakout Season at Howard

Steve Settle III, another DeMatha graduate, had a breakout season at Howard University, earning MEAC second team honors. Following that season, Settle transferred to Temple where he played his final two seasons of college. He averaged 12.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game for the Owls last season.

Jahmir Young: From DeMatha to College Success

Jahmir Young, a 2019 DeMatha graduate, has excelled in college basketball, showcasing his talent and leadership skills.

Earl Timberlake: A Versatile Talent

Earl Timberlake, a 2020 DeMatha graduate, has played college basketball at multiple universities, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability.

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Coaches and Leaders: Extending the DeMatha Influence

The impact of DeMatha basketball extends beyond the players who have donned the Stags' jersey. Many DeMatha alumni have gone on to become successful coaches and leaders in the basketball world.

Mike Brey: Head Coach at Notre Dame

Mike Brey, a 1977 DeMatha graduate, served as the head coach at Notre Dame for many years, leading the Fighting Irish to numerous NCAA Tournament appearances. Prior to entering the collegiate ranks, Brey previously spent five seasons as an assistant coach at his high school alma mater, DeMatha High School in Hyattsville, Md., under Wootten before taking the assistant's post at Duke. He served as DeMatha head junior varsity coach and varsity assistant beginning in 1982.

Kenny Blakeney: Assistant Coach at Columbia University

Kenny Blakeney, a 1990 DeMatha graduate, is an assistant coach at Columbia University, helping to develop the next generation of basketball talent.

Sidney Lowe: Former NBA Player and Coach

Sidney Lowe (1979), former NBA player and coach.

David Adkins: Director of Player Development

David Adkins is the Director of Player Development for the Portland Trail Blazers.

Heath Schroyer: Athletic Director

Heath Schroyer (1990) is the Athletic Director at McNeese State.

Other Notable Alumni

DeMatha boasts alumni who have excelled in various fields beyond basketball, reflecting the school's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals.

Sports

Bill Hamid (2008): Professional soccer player for D.C. United.
Chris Odoi-Atsem (2013): Professional soccer player for D.C. United.
Coy Gibbs (1991): Former NASCAR driver and assistant coach for the Washington Redskins.
Paul Rabil: Founder of the Premier Lacrosse League.

Media and Arts

Eric Bickel (1988) and Jason Bishop (1988): On-air hosts for The Sports Junkies radio show.
James Brown: Fox Sports Broadcaster.
Jim Nelson (1981): Editor in Chief, GQ.

Politics and Public Service

Kevin Shea (1972): Former acting Secretary of Agriculture (2021).
Justin Fairfax: Former Lieutenant Governor of Virginia.

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