The Connecticut basketball community is mourning the loss of a true pillar. Reggie Hatchett, the former Weaver High boys basketball coach who built a powerhouse program and touched countless young lives, passed away Thursday at the age of 47 in Georgia due to complications from diabetes and chronic heart failure.

Hatchett’s legacy is etched in the record books and in the hearts of his players. A 1997 Weaver graduate himself, he returned to lead his alma mater to an incredible run of success. Over seven seasons, he compiled a 121-51 record, steering the Beavers to three consecutive state championship games from 2014-2016 and capturing the Class M title in 2015.

But his impact stretched far beyond the high school gym. Hatchett also served as the director of sports, fitness, and recreation at the Boys & Girls Club of Hartford while coaching AAU and youth teams. His influence was profound, with current Weaver coach Shawn Bell noting Hatchett impacted "thousands" of kids in the Hartford area.

"He was really big in the community," said Derrick Butter Small, Hatchett's assistant coach during the championship era. "He brought a little bit of the pride back that we had in the early '90s."

Five years ago, Hatchett moved to Georgia with his fiancée, Keisha Smith, and their two basketball-playing sons, Benjamin and Azir, seeking new opportunities for his family. Despite leaving the community where he had built his legacy, the bonds he forged remained strong.

"The outpouring of support has been overwhelming," said Candace Smith, Keisha's sister. For his sons, hearing the stories of their father's dedication as a coach has been a source of great comfort during this difficult time.

Reggie Hatchett’s story is one of a coach who did more than win games—he helped shape character and rebuild community pride, leaving an indelible mark on Connecticut basketball.