Boys Basketball (Winter)
Head Coach: Chad Smith
Coach Smith was raised in a basketball-centric environment in Thatcher, AZ, where basketball has always been a driving force in his life. He has coached both Football and Basketball at the Junior High level in Thatcher, guiding his Eagle basketball team to a remarkable 17-1 record and securing the EAJH championship. Transitioning to Empire High School, Coach Smith took on the roles of Head JV Coach, Assistant Coach for the Boy’s Varsity, and Freshman programs. His coaching philosophy emphasizes the values of Discipline, Academics, and Character for student-athletes.
Before returning to Arizona, Coach Smith obtained his Bachelor of Science from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA. His spouse proudly serves in the United States Air Force, which has led them to live in various states across the country, including Ohio, Virginia, Texas, Hawaii, and Florida. These experiences enabled Coach Smith to observe and incorporate diverse basketball playing styles from around the United States into his coaching approach at Empire High School. Besides coaching, Coach Smith shares his passion for teaching as a faculty member at Empire High School, educating students in US-History and World History.