One of the more compelling hires in girls high school basketball this offseason is former Desert Ridge coach James Lefebvre by Higley High School. In his only season at the helm of the Jaguars, Lefebvre guided the team to a 10-7 record and a trip to the second round of the 6A state playoffs during the 2023–2024 campaign.
The Knights, who moved up to 6A last season, posted a 10-8 regular season record and advanced to the third round of the 6A state playoffs. They return a strong core led by standout forward Cadence Murdough, along with dynamic guards Claire Greenwade and Jayla Freeman.
I had the opportunity to catch up with Coach Lefebvre for an interview. Here’s what he had to say:
GC3: Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to this coaching opportunity?
Coach Lefebvre: My basketball journey started when I was 10 years old in our community education program in Pinckney, Michigan. I was always a middle-of-the-road player and rarely excelled. I had a standout off-season between junior and senior season that gave me the opportunity to play at the University of Hawaii at Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. I played four years for this NCAA DII school where I met my now wife in 2012. Since, I’ve played two seasons in the ABA, several seasons in local Pro-Am leagues, and most recently two seasons as a practice player for the Mercury. This has allowed me to see basketball coached and played at all levels. I spent the last three years coaching boys and girls varsity basketball with 2 years at Desert Ridge High School and 1 year with Skyline High School. Lastly, my wife and I own D1 Training East Mesa and have become tightly connected with athletic training for all athletes that we interact with.
My passion and leadership tendencies had me eagerly searching to return as a Head Coach. Higley High School created that opportunity and includes some highly competitive young women that should allow us to compete for a title over the next several seasons.
GC3: What attracted you to this particular school and basketball program?
Coach Lefebvre: This program has some serious hoopers and is ready to contend with the right leadership, I believe. There’s nothing more satisfying as a coach than to help your athletes meet their athletic goals while winning games.
GC3: How would you describe your coaching style and philosophy?
Coach Lefebvre: Tough but fair. In my first few days as a coach, I met all the girls who all expressed interest in playing in college. That makes my life easier because now I have a very high bar set for my expectations of their focus, effort, and commitment. While the bar may be high, I will be in lockstep with each athlete to help them meet that bar. I believe deeply in respect, accountability, and discipline for these young athletes.
GC3: What are your goals for the team in your first season?
Coach Lefebvre: We have the talent to contend for a 6A title, if not compete in the open, but have been plagued with some curable ailments. My goal is to bring this program together to maximize the talent on the team. In doing that, I think we’ll have a real shot at winning a lot of meaningful games.
GC3: How do you plan to build relationships with your players, both as athletes and as young people?
Coach Lefebvre: I’ve already begun taking steps towards building relationships with players and parents, in just a few days. We started with player and parent meetings in my first week on board to provide my background, my vision, and answer questions. I’ve also brought back a former coach, Julie Talbot, who was wildly popular within the program amongst the players. I also meet 1 on 1 with all my players, guided by a one-page questionnaire that they each complete. This helps me understand who the player is, both on the court and off. Most times, if you understand a player and can tailor your approach, you can connect with them on a more meaningful level. I want to understand how they like to be coached and what their goals are so that we can meet those together.
GC3: What can fans, parents, and the school community expect from your team this season?
Coach Lefebvre: Care. I’m an ultra competitive former athlete but more than anything, I care for the young athletes and I care for the community. I will invest heavily into the program to maximize each player’s ability. I care about winning but I also care about each athlete’s personal journey. As a father of three, I understand the parents and what they expect. This team of young athletes will become my second family.
How do you plan to encourage school spirit and community involvement around the Higley basketball program? I’ve always encouraged our athletes to support other school programs so that, selfishly, they are more likely to come support us. We will also create a fun brand of basketball to watch that’s fast pace and a defense that creates chaos. Winning is also a great way to get students involved. Within the community, we will be looking for 1-2 community service projects that we can participate in. Additionally, we will be involved with Sossaman Middle School to help inspire the next generation of Lady Knights.
GC3: What message would you like to share with your new team and their families as you begin this journey?
Coach Lefebvre: Trust the process. It’s easy to coach from the sideline; it’s easy to critique something you only partially understand; it’s easy to be influenced by the bias of your own kid. I promise that I will do everything in my power to, 1. Help develop strong, independent young women, 2. Help prepare each player for the expectations and play style of college basketball, 3. Win games. Let the coaches coach, let the players plan, and let the fans be fans. Your athletes will not maximize their on-court ability with off-court distractions – so in the interest of your athlete, stay positive and motivating. I will pour my heart and soul into this program and into each individual athlete.
