As the school year begins, there’s been a major coaching shakeup at a top NEPSAC boys basketball contender.
Raphael Chillious, after a successful second stint as the boys head coach at the South Kent School, is leaving the program to take a job with the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies, the school announced on Tuesday. Chillious also served as the school’s Athletic Director.
“Throughout his tenure, Coach Chills has been a driving force behind the growth and success of our athletic programs, and especially our basketball program,” the school wrote in a statement on Twitter/X. “From overseeing championships to fostering a culture of excellence, sportsmanship, and brotherhood, Raphael’s dedication, passion and expertise have left an indelible mark on South Kent.”
Under Chillious, South Kent has become a prep powerhouse not only in New England but also nationally over the last two decades. Chillious’ first stint at the school came from 2003-08, when he led the Cardinals into national prominence and the national rankings before he left to take several Division 1 assistant coaching jobs at high-major programs. He returned to South Kent in 2020, and he led the Cardinals to a NEPSAC Class AAA championship in 2023.
