The South Dakota high school basketball season has officially wrapped, and the state's coaching elite are taking a well-deserved bow. The South Dakota Basketball Coaches Association has announced its Region Coaches of the Year, honoring 37 mentors for their outstanding leadership during the 2025-26 campaign.

Among the celebrated names is a figure synonymous with dedication: Watertown's Pat McClemans. This honor adds a poignant capstone to a remarkable career, as McClemans is retiring after decades of shaping young athletes on and off the court. His final season was a testament to his enduring impact, guiding his team through a competitive year.

The recognition comes on the heels of an electrifying state tournament in Rapid City, where several of these coaches led their teams to impressive finishes. Clark-Willow Lake, under the guidance of their honored coach, powered to a 21-4 record and a hard-fought fourth-place finish in Class A. Not far behind, Hamlin High capped a stellar 22-4 season by securing third place in a thrilling game that saw standout performances from players like Trig Heinrich and Boden Stevenson.

Meanwhile, Groton Area demonstrated resilience, closing a strong 19-6 season with a victory in the seventh-place game. These team achievements underscore the strategic brilliance and motivational prowess that define a Coach of the Year—qualities that translate directly to the discipline and teamwork we celebrate in sports at every level.

From crafting game-winning plays to instilling lifelong values, these 37 coaches have left an indelible mark on South Dakota basketball. As we applaud their success, we're reminded that behind every great player and every memorable season is a coach who believed, challenged, and led the way.