Rock Canyon head coach Kent Grams continues to grow the program
HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. — Rock Canyon High School hit the jackpot ten years ago when hiring head basketball coach Kent Grams. Over the last decade, Coach Grams has proven he has what it takes to lead one of the premier basketball programs in the state.
Coach Grams strives for success and expects it from all of his players. The Rock Canyon boys basketball team hasn’t had a losing record since Grams’ first year in 2012. Competing and working hard is in his nature and watching him pass that on to his players is special.
“Every year has its twists and turns,” Coach Grams said. “We talk about relationships a lot. Every moment we get to have conversations and be in the gym are defining.”
High school basketball is more than just X’s and O’s. The connection that Coach Grams makes with each team is exactly why they are in the running for state most years. He is a friend and a mentor while teaching the game of basketball. This is exactly why he wanted to begin coaching.
“Most importantly, the greatest mentors in my life have been my coaches and I wanted to have the same influence for my players and kids that they had on me,” Grams said.
“Coach Grams is a great coach because he cares about his kids as a person first,” former Rock Canyon basketball player, Colin Rardin, said. “The relationships he has with his players are the most important thing to him and it’s a huge reason why he’s been able to build Rock Canyon into the program it is. The kids really love playing for him.”
Grams’ dedication to the team leaves him with little free time. The program is running all year long, and every day is another opportunity to get better in his eyes. The Jaguars are always prepared. He spends most of the offseason working on little details, getting his players ready for any situation during the season.
“The offseason is very important,” he said. “We spend a lot of time in the weight room and developing our players’ skills. I believe our offseason habits create an opportunity to have success in the regular season.”
Coaching in the Continental League is a serious challenge. Every league game is unpredictable, but Coach Grams does everything in his power to prepare his boys. The trick isn’t breaking news, though.
“You need to be consistent with what you do,” Coach Grams said when asked what it takes to be a top program in Colorado. “We prepare for each game and practice as an opportunity to improve. “
The Rock Canyon Jaguars have jumped out to a 4-0 start to begin the 2021 season. It looks as if Coach Grams has inspired another team to compete for the league and state title. If they continue to play with as much effort and enthusiasm as they have been, don’t be surprised if they make a deep run in the state tournament.
Preparation and consistency drive this program. Every great coach has a message that they want to give to their team. Grams’ message is simple.
“Find a way to win,” he said. “Games might not go the way you want them to, but you have to persevere, show great resolve and grind.”
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