McGavock High School is ushering in a new era for its boys basketball program, announcing the hiring of Michael Claybrooks as the team's new head coach on May 14. The move, confirmed by Metro Nashville Public Schools, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh vision to a program hungry for success.
A proud graduate of Hillsboro High School, Claybrooks steps into the role with over two decades of coaching under his belt. His journey includes a stint as an assistant at Christ Presbyterian Academy and extensive work at the AAU level, where he honed his skills developing young talent. Notably, he led the Mookie Betts Travel Club, focusing on advanced skill development that prepares players for the next level.
"I am extremely thankful to be chosen to serve the Nashville community as the McGavock High School head basketball coach," Claybrooks said in a statement. "I am honored for the opportunity to lead this program and build a winning culture that is process driven. I am a transformational leader that will build a program with value-based principles that will help students to be successful in life. I would like to thank Mr. Bruce Jackson and the entire administration for believing in me to get this basketball program where it should be. It's a new day at McGavock High School. Check Ball!!"
Claybrooks inherits a team that finished 1-19 last season, a record that underscores the challenge ahead. The Raiders have not seen a state tournament appearance since 1976, when they captured the Class AAA state championship—a historic moment that still echoes in the school's gymnasium. For a program with such a storied past, the hiring signals a commitment to rebuilding from the ground up.
With a focus on process-driven growth and value-based leadership, Claybrooks aims to transform the Raiders into contenders. For fans and players alike, this is more than a coaching change—it's a chance to revive a legacy. Whether you're tracking the team's progress or gearing up for the season, one thing is clear: the energy is shifting at McGavock.