HS Boys Basketball: College Park’s Clifton McNeely Tallies 700th Career Win

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- A resounding 80-31 win over the Cleveland Indians was the final win needed to secure College Park Basketball Head Coach Clifton McNeely’s 700th career win.

The multiple stops and hat changes for McNeely have seen the 30-year coaching veteran build a reputation of dependable play and impactful leadership.

Owing to McNeely’s success are the multiple generations of athletes, coaches, and parents who have trusted him to lead the way toward a path of success based on fostering meaningful connections.

In an interview with The Woodlands Online Sports, McNeely emphasized the importance of creating and maintaining connections with his players and coaches while evolving with the game.

“Building relationships has been key, fostering connections with players and coaches alike,” said McNeely. “One of the most valuable tools I’ve developed is being a lifelong learner of the game. I continue to attend clinics, observe successful programs, and study the game to stay sharp and grow.”

With waves of players hitting the collegiate ranks, the College Park program has been blessed with a generational coach who continues to produce at high levels.

Coach McNeely’s jumps from assistant coaching at schools like Port Author Lincoln and Aldine Eisenhower to college jobs at SMU and the University of Houston have seen the mathematically minded leader pick up tools of the trade that have shaped him into one of the most reliable coaches in 13-6A regardless of sport.

“Having great mentors early in my journey was also pivotal,” said McNeely. “They taught me to identify my core coaching philosophy, stay true to my system, and remain open to new ideas. Above all, the foundation of my success has been consistently putting in a full day’s work.”

Many changes have come and gone through the basketball world during McNeely’s coaching tenures, but each time he remains ahead of the curve due to his years of experience and open-minded approach.

Success in adapting to new strategies and changes in athletes has only strengthened McNeely’s programs from year to year.

“The biggest change I’ve seen over the years is how talented and athletic players have become,” said McNeely. “Their skills, particularly shooting abilities, are on an entirely different level compared to when I started coaching in 1984.”

But changes in the game and location changes have all been overcome by a coach who continues to write the definitions of consistency and winning in his own way.

“I feel incredibly blessed. Over 30 years as a head coach, achieving 700 wins is a testament to the talented players and exceptional assistant coaches I/vs had the privilege to work with,” said McNeely. “It’s also a reflection of the wisdom to trust my players and let them shine in their unique ways.”

Several waves of players sent to play collegiate ball is another one of the lasting achievements that plays twofold in telling McNeely’s success. The incredible ability to shape young athletes into standouts while attracting more fresh faces is the basis for sustaining winning no matter who leaves a program.

“This milestone also speaks to the passion I have for the game and my commitment to helping others achieve their goals,” said McNeely. “The numbers tell part of the story. 19 players advancing to Division One basketball and 44 continuing at the Division Two, Three, NAIA, or JUCO levels.”

Reflection on past players and coaches allows the stalwart leader to appreciate those who have helped him along the way. This includes an incredible cornerstone at home that provides needed stability.

“Lastly, I owe so much to my incredible wife of 38 years,” said McNeely. “Her unwavering support and encouragement have been my foundation, and I’ve always been motivated to make her proud.”

Congratulations to Coach Clifton McNeely on his incredible accomplishments and his future successes.